Banging Water Pipes – The Cause And Solution
Banging noises from water pipes can be alarming especially if it is the first time for you to hear it. However, you should not worry since this situation is manageable when handled properly. The banging noise you hear every time you close the water tap is commonly known as water hammer. This is because they sound like hammers being pounded on the water pipes. Although they’re not so harmful, hearing water hammers from time to time can be irritating. In order to deal with water hammers and eliminate them completely, you must first know what causes them. You can also contact an emergency plumber service provider if simple measures do not seem to work.
Before understanding what causes banging water pipes, it is ideal to have an idea on the basic flow of water from the source to your faucet. When you open the water tap, valves found in the pipes open as well. This allows the water to flow without getting blocked. When you close the water tap, the valves close to stop the water flow. Water hammers often take place upon closing the water tap. This result from the water pipes being suddenly deprived of air. Air is very important to cushion the pressure of water flowing in water pipes. If the amount of air is suddenly reduced, the pipes will not be able to control the pressure, leading to the banging sounds.
In order to prevent banging noises due to sudden loss of air, you must learn to close water taps slowly. This will help control the water pressure and decrease it gradually. It is also advisable for you to check the source of water hammer so you can install insulators around it. You can locate the water hammer site with the help of an expert. An emergency plumber can also install your pipes with water hammer arresters or a pressure reducing valve. This will help control the vibration and prevent banging.
Another cause of water hammers is loose water pipes. This is the reason why water hammers are common in old houses. When the water pipes are loose and are out of place, they will not be able to control the vibration caused by the pressure of flowing water. When the pressure is too much, banging will surely occur.
Dealing with this situation is a little easier. All you need to do is to attach the water pipes on the walls so they will be able to withstand the pressure. Along with attaching them properly, you should also check your water pipes for cracks and leaks. This is because cracks and leaks can cause the separation of the water pipes from where they were attached.
You should not deprive yourself of comfort by living with banging sounds from water pipes. Deal with them as early as possible to prevent them from irritating you much further. Water hammers may not be dangerous but they are seriously irritating. Call a plumbing service company now and know more about how you can deal with water hammers.
If you want a plumbing estimate on fitting a pressure reducing valve then we can get a plumber out to at a convenient time and day to suit yourself.