Stop the Noise: Simple Solutions for Water Hammer in Your Plumbing

If you hear that dreaded "clanking" sound coming from your pipes when you turn off the faucet, you're dealing with a common plumbing problem called water hammer. This phenomenon happens when water flowing rapidly through pipes is suddenly stopped, causing the pipes to shake and produce a loud noise.

Water hammer is more noticeable in pipes that are not properly secured, which means it often happens in areas like kitchens or bathrooms, especially in higher floors of the house. In this article, we’ll explain why water hammer happens and provide solutions for fixing it.

What Is Water Hammer?

Water hammer occurs when a faucet or valve is turned off quickly, causing a sudden stop to the flow of water. Since water is incompressible, the inertia of the water moving through the pipes causes a pressure spike that forces the pipes to vibrate. This vibration creates the banging or clanking sound that you hear.

The problem can be exacerbated by pipes that are loose or not securely fastened. The more movement there is, the louder the noise. If you notice this issue only in one faucet or location, it’s likely that this specific line is affected.

Solutions for Water Hammer

Fortunately, there are several ways to fix or reduce the impact of water hammer:

1. Shut Off the Water Slower

The quickest way to avoid water hammer is to slowly turn off the faucet. When the water is shut off too suddenly, it creates a shockwave throughout the plumbing system. By turning the faucet off more gradually, you give the water time to decelerate, reducing the chances of a pressure spike.

2. Reduce the Flow

Another way to solve water hammer is by reducing the flow of water through the faucet. If the flow rate is too high, it can create more pressure when it’s suddenly stopped. For a kitchen sink, the recommended flow rate is around 2 gallons per minute (GPM). If your faucet is providing more than that, you might want to consider adjusting the shut-off valve to reduce the flow, which can help alleviate the hammering sound.

3. Install Water Hammer Arresters

For a more permanent solution, consider installing water hammer arresters. These are devices that act as a cushion to absorb the shock created when water flow is stopped suddenly. The arresters are filled with air and installed in the plumbing system, typically at the end of the line where the valve is located.

There are different types of water hammer arresters, ranging from small models designed for individual sinks or toilets to larger ones that can be installed on entire branches of the plumbing system. The most effective approach is to install arresters directly under the sink where the hammering occurs.

Final Thoughts

Water hammer is a noisy but manageable problem. By slowing down your water shutoff, reducing water flow, or installing water hammer arresters, you can significantly reduce or eliminate the clanking sound. If the issue persists, it might be worth checking the overall condition of your plumbing or consulting a professional plumber to ensure your pipes are properly secured.

With these simple steps, you can restore peace and quiet to your home while preventing further damage to your plumbing system.