Ask a Plumber: What’s a Water Hammer?

Published Date: February 21st, 2017 | Category: Plumbing Repair

Simply, a water hammer is a strange banging noise that can occur after flushing the toilet, using the dishwasher or turning on the water. It’s called a water hammer because it almost sounds like someone is taking a hammer to your plumbing. Water hammer, in reality, is actually caused by the rushing of water through your pipes. And, depending on the age of your home, the solutions to help reduce this sound can vary. If you’ve been experiencing this odd banging noise, it’s time to call the professionals. When you need a plumber in Roseville, trust the experts at All Ways Drains, we are here to help with all of your plumbing related needs. We’ve put together a brief analysis of what water hammer is, what may cause it and a few solutions on how we can fix it.

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The Causes

Even though every home is different, the source for water hammer is usually the same; a sudden rush of water causing the pipes to bang up against the walls of your home. When you turn on the faucet or flush the toilet, the water rushes quickly through the pipes and after the valve closes, it causes the water to stop rushing and cause a sudden loss of momentum. As a result, the pipes hit against the walls and create a banging noise. When you hear this noise, it’s time to call a plumber.

Other Possible Causes

A water hammer is the most common cause of loud banging noises, though they may also come from loose connections between pipes and the wall studs of your home. It can also be from excess water pressure. Simply reducing your water pressure could in fact cause the noises to cease. Either way, it is best to enlist the help from a trusted plumber, like those at All Ways Drains, for a proper diagnosis.

How to Make it Stop

This is unfortunately not a do-it-yourself project. The best way to get rid of a water hammer is by calling a professional plumber. An expert plumber from All Ways Drains will be able to address the noise after evaluating the situation and finding the best solution for your home’s specific needs. Old and new homes both have different types of pipes and the factors contributing to the banging noise could be different. The expertise from a professional plumber is required to determine what these are.

Whether you are in need of a solution to your water hammer problems or anything else a plumber can help with, call on us for all of your residential plumbing needs.

When you need a plumber in Roseville, call All Ways Drains at 612-922-9422 or contact us for a Free Estimate.