Is Water Hammer Haunting the House?

Ways to Tackle That Scaring Banging Sound Behind the Wall 

The shower turns off, and something behind the wall starts banging. Someone turns the sink off––and there it is again. Homeowners might initially chalk up the sound to their imagination. However, it could be a water hammer. This phenomenon requires help from a plumbing professional, as it doesn’t go away on its own. 

This Halloween, homeowners don’t have to feel terror whenever the water hammer acts up. Get the issue fixed before damage can occur or worsen. By knowing a few basics about this issue, homeowners can take measures to remedy it sooner. 

What Is Water Hammer? 

The home’s plumbing system includes a network of pipes that bring water from its source to its destination and beyond. Those pipes rely on valves that direct water flow, stop water flow, and prevent backflow. When someone turns a fixture’s water on and off, they control the valve. However, suppose a valve stops or redirects the water too quickly (or water pressure builds up). In that case, the water could slam against the valve repeatedly, sending shockwaves through the nearby pipes and creating a banging sound. 

Water hammer isn’t uncommon. Sometimes, homeowners can remedy the problem by slowly turning off faucets and showers. This halts water flow and prevents it from putting pressure on the valve. However, homeowners should immediately reach out to a trained professional if this problem persists. 

Water Hammers Pose Various Dangers

A water hammer can wreak havoc on a plumbing system if left unaddressed. As noted, a water hammer causes shockwaves that may cause higher-than-average strain on the surrounding pipes. This can: 

• Erode at pipes’ interior, leading to leaks 
• Cause pipes to burst 
• Eat away at the valve 
• lead to long-term damage to gaskets and other fixtures
• Cause appliances to last for a shorter period than they should 

When looking over these hazards, noisy water pipes become the least of a homeowner’s worries. This makes it imperative to seek assistance from qualified professionals immediately before these damages occur. 

A Professional Can Find and Fix Water Hammer

Homeowners should schedule annual maintenance visits with qualified plumbing professionals. This way, they can inspect the plumbing and identify problems before they become expensive issues. When a plumber confirms the presence of a water hammer, they will: 

• Identify the problem’s source. They may do this by relying on their experience or using specialized tools that rely on sound waves. 
• Evaluate the plumbing system’s pipes, valves, and gaskets. Sometimes, water hammer arises from worn or faulty fixtures. If so, a professional can replace them. 
• Fix the problem. Fixing water hammers could involve installing air chambers in the plumbing system. This reduces pressure inside the system. They may also install a water hammer arrestor, which absorbs the shockwaves that a water hammer causes. 
• Suggest preventive measures. Before they leave, the plumber may suggest measures that could prevent plumbing problems in the future. This may include flushing the water heater or patching leaks. 

A plumber will also search for other problems that could have arisen due to the water hammer, such as worn pipes or outdated appliances. 

About JD Precision Plumbing Services 

JD Precision Plumbing Services is a local contractor with over a decade of experience serving The Woodlands, TX, and the surrounding areas. They provide hassle-free service, upfront pricing, and a transparent process. Call them today for water line repair in Woodlands, TX.

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