When it comes to home maintenance, keeping an ear out for strange noises is a great way to stay on top of repairs. This is especially true when it comes to your plumbing. If you suddenly hear a loud bang or knocking, it is most likely a water hammer, which is an issue a plumber needs to fix. The following guide details more about this common problem so you can better understand what it is and how it can be repaired.

What Do Homeowners Need to Know About Water Hammer?

The Basics

A water hammer is a loud sound that emanates from household pipes and is often described as an abrupt banging or clanging. The noise is created by hydraulic shock, which occurs when a high-pressure flow of water is suddenly stopped or forced to move in another direction. If the redirection happens too fast, the momentum causes the supply to slam into the pipe. When the pressure is exceedingly high, the plumbing might even shake. 

Resulting Problems

If a water hammer issue isn't repaired by a plumber, the force of the water flow can damage the pipes. This might result in weakened connections and loose components, and the plumbing could start pulling away from the wall every time the water slams around inside the system. Eventually, the pipes could also start to leak, and they may even require replacement. If the dripping is left unaddressed or goes unnoticed, it could lead to significant household water damage, including wood rot and mold and mildew development. 

Solutions

When repairing a water hammer issue, plumbers often replace the check valve on the piping so that it's more conducive to the flow of gravity and the types of pipes. This component allows the water supply to move in one direction and closes to prevent backflow. There are also certain valve mechanisms that interrupt the high-pressure flow of water at certain points to slow it down and prevent a water hammer from occurring altogether.

A plumber can install an air chamber that creates an air cushion for the water to slam into, keeping it from hitting the interior of a pipe. This pocket operates as a shock-absorber.

If you're constantly hearing water hammers in your home, reach out to Disponette Service Co. Inc. in Lexington, KY. This family-owned company has served residents and businesses throughout the region for more than four decades. Their plumbers are equipped to handle jobs of all sizes, from backflow testing to fitting your home for new pipes. They're also available to assist with emergencies, and their team also offers HVAC maintenance and services. Visit their website or call (859) 255-7157 to learn more about everything they have to offer.