Water hammering on a distribution system can be very annoying and sometimes dangerous. Water hammering can be caused by a handful of things- basic issues of water hammering include water pressure being too high, toilet fill valves not operating properly, loose or missing piping supports or a need for hammer arrestors on the water distribution system. Recommended water pressure or PSI is between 50-80. If you or someone you know is experiencing water hammering or knocking please give our experts at Pipecraft Plumbing a call and we can come out and diagnose the problem and offer some solutions.
Can a water hammer burst pipes?
Yes, water hammering can burst pipes. The pipe can rupture and cause a break in the piping system. This occurs when the pipe is not equipped to handle the amount of pressure passing through and instead it bursts.
Where do you put a whole house water hammer arrestor?
Correctly sized water hammer arrestors should be installed on the hot and cold water supply piping to that fixture, equipment or apparatus where shock can be produced. A PRV or pressure reducing valve installed on the discharge side of the water meter can be very helpful in protecting the piping system.
How do you test for a water hammer?
Testing for air in the water lines and for water hammer is easy. If the knocking, banging or echoing starts when you open a valve or turn on a faucet, you most likely have air in your plumbing lines. If the noise starts when a valve closes or the faucet is turned off, you’ve got a water hammer.
