What is a Water Hammer Arrestor? Explore the Solution to Annoying Plumbing Noises!

We’ve all experienced it: that sudden loud banging or knocking noise coming from our plumbing system. It can be disruptive, irritating, and downright annoying. But fear not! There’s a solution to this common problem – enter the water hammer arrestor.

The Culprit: Water Hammers

Before we delve into the nitty-gritty of water hammer arrestors, let’s understand what causes these pesky noises in the first place. Water hammers, also known as hydraulic shocks, occur when the flow of water in your pipes suddenly stops or changes direction.

Imagine a scenario where you’re enjoying a nice warm shower one moment, and suddenly someone flushes the toilet elsewhere in the house. Bang! You hear that unmistakable noise echoing through your bathroom – that’s a water hammer causing vibrations in your plumbing pipes.

Understanding Water Hammer Arrestors

So how exactly does a water hammer arrestor help mitigate these irritating noises caused by hydraulic shocks? A water hammer arrestor acts as a shock absorber for your plumbing system, preventing pressure buildup that results in those unpleasant banging sounds.

Essentially, it works like this: when you have an abrupt change in water flow or direction (like turning off a faucet quickly), typically there is no mechanism to absorb the resulting shockwaves. Instead, these shockwaves travel through your pipes and create literal ‘hammering’ against them.

But with a water hammer arrestor installed in strategic points within your plumbing system (more on this later), it interrupts and absorbs those excessive pressures produced by sudden valve closures or backflows. By doing so, it eliminates noisy bangs while extending the lifespan of your piping infrastructure.

How Does a Water Hammer Arrestor Work?

To better understand how water hammer arrestors work their magic, let’s take a closer look at their inner workings. Water hammer arrestors consist of two essential components:

1. Air Chamber: This is a sealed portion within the arrestor where air is trapped and compressed. When hydraulic shocks occur, the water rushing into the air chamber compresses the air inside, effectively absorbing and cushioning the shockwaves.
2. Water Seal: The water seal prevents water from entering or exiting the air chamber while still allowing for proper air compression when needed.

Together, these components work in harmony to dissipate excess pressure caused by sudden changes in water flow or direction.

Types of Water Hammer Arrestors

Now that we understand how these devices function, let’s explore different types of water hammer arrestors available on the market today.

1. Vertical and Horizontal Arrestors

Vertical and horizontal are common classifications based on how an arrestor can be installed within your plumbing system. Depending on your specific needs and space constraints, you can choose between vertical or horizontal options for seamless integration.

2. Size Matters: Choosing Correctly

When it comes to selecting the right-sized water hammer arrestor, it’s crucial to consider factors such as pipe diameter and anticipated flow rate. An undersized arrestor may not provide sufficient shock absorption capabilities, while an oversized one will unnecessarily increase costs.

Therefore, consulting a professional plumber who can accurately assess your plumbing system specifications is highly recommended before purchasing a water hammer arrestor.

Installing Water Hammer Arrestors: A DIY Endeavor?

Installing a water hammer arrestor might sound like a daunting task; however, with basic plumbing knowledge and a few handy tools at your disposal, it’s entirely possible to tackle this as a DIY project — no need to call in costly professionals!

Here’s an overview of what you’ll need:

• Pipe cutter
• Adjustable wrench
• Teflon tape
• Pliers

Remember: Prioritize safety during installation! Always shut off your main water supply before attempting any plumbing work to avoid unwanted surprises.

Step 1: Locate the Problem Areas

To effectively eliminate water hammer noises, it’s crucial to pinpoint which areas of your plumbing system are most susceptible. Problem areas commonly include faucets, toilets, dishwashers, and washing machines – places where sudden changes in water flow or valve closures occur frequently.

The Importance of Proper Placement

Placement is everything when it comes to maximizing the effectiveness of your water hammer arrestor. Improper placement can render even the best arrestors ineffective. So let’s explore the key considerations for strategic placement:

1. Near Valve Closures

The ideal spot for installing a water hammer arrestor is as close as possible to valve closures within your plumbing system.
Why? Because this is where the majority of hydraulic shocks originate. For example, if you’re experiencing excessive noise from your kitchen faucet each time you turn it off, placing an arrestor directly beneath or nearby can work wonders!

2. At High Impact Points

Another important consideration is identifying high-impact points in your plumbing system.
What do we mean by ‘high-impact points’? These are locations that experience frequent changes in direction or significant pressure variations due to various appliances being turned on or off simultaneously.

Now that we’ve discovered how annoying those banging sounds caused by hydraulic shocks can be let us comprehend how a water hammer arrester swoops in like a silent hero and saves us from further frustration!
Q: What causes noisy plumbing and how can I fix it?
A: Noisy plumbing, often caused by water hammer, can be fixed with the installation of a water hammer arrestor. Here’s how it works.

Q: How does a water hammer arrestor work to reduce plumbing noises?
A: A water hammer arrestor is designed to absorb the shock and pressure fluctuations that occur when the flow of water in your pipes suddenly changes. It helps prevent those annoying banging or knocking noises in your plumbing system.

Q: Can a water hammer arrestor prevent pipe damage?
A: Yes, by absorbing the sudden pressure changes, a water hammer arrestor can protect your pipes from potential damage. It acts as a buffer, preventing excessive stress on the joints and fittings.

Q: Where should I install a water hammer arrestor in my plumbing system?
A: Water hammer arrestors are typically installed near fixtures and appliances that commonly cause the abrupt changes in water flow. This includes washing machines, dishwashers, or faucets.

Q: Are all water hammer arrestors the same size?
A: Water hammer arrestors come in various sizes depending on their intended application. It’s important to choose one that matches your specific needs to ensure optimal performance.

Q: Can I install a water hammer arrestor myself or do I need professional help?
A: Installing a basic water hammer arrestor can be done as a DIY project if you have some plumbing knowledge and experience. However, for more complex installations or if you’re unsure about any steps involved, it’s always best to consult with a professional plumber.

Q: Is there any maintenance required for water hammer arrestors?
A: Generally, low-maintenance devices like water hammer arrestors don’t require regular servicing. However, periodic checks for leaks or malfunctions are recommended to ensure they continue functioning effectively over time.

Q: Do all houses need a water hammer arrestor for their plumbing system?
A: Not all houses require water hammer arrestors, but if you are experiencing loud banging sounds when using your fixtures or appliances, it’s likely a good idea to consider installing one. It can greatly improve the functionality and lifespan of your plumbing system while eliminating annoying noises.

Q: Can a water hammer arrestor completely eliminate all plumbing noises in my house?
A: While a water hammer arrestor is an effective solution for minimizing or eliminating water hammer-related noises, it may not address other sources of plumbing noise such as rattling pipes caused by loose fittings or excessive pressure. For comprehensive sound reduction, additional measures may be needed.