Banging Pipes Haunting the House?
During the Halloween season, unusual banging sounds in the walls, attic, or basement could have homeowners feeling like they live in a haunted house, but those scary sounds could be coming from the pipes. Water hammers can be just as frightening.
In this blog post, professional plumbers explain what a water hammer is and why it’s dangerous. Homeowners can avoid a scary plumbing emergency this Halloween by having mysterious sounds inspected by a trusted local plumbing company. Professional plumbers can quickly solve water hammer and stop those spooky sounds from interrupting scary movie night.
What Causes Water Hammers?
A water hammer is a loud thumping or banging noise due to a pressure surge in the pipes. It may sound like a ghost is knocking on the walls. This noise is caused by a pressure imbalance in the lines when the water changes directions or stops suddenly, which sends a shockwave through the pipework.
Plumbing systems have air chambers in the pipes that regulate the water pressure and flow. When water gets into the pipes' air chambers, it can cause loud noises. High pressure can cause the water to slam up against the inside of the lines.
Water hammers can also be caused by improper plumbing installation, a problem with the main water line, or damaged pipes. Shaky pipes from loose parts could also be the cause of the noise. During routine plumbing maintenance, plumbers can tighten any loose parts to prevent shaking pipes from causing spooky noises.
It’s normal to hear some occasional thumping noises from the plumbing, but if it’s frequent, then it’s time to call a plumber. High pressure in the water pipes could lead to a burst pipe. Fixing water hammers early on can help homeowners to prevent water damage and avoid costly repairs.
Is a Water Hammer Dangerous?
A water hammer can cause serious damage to the plumbing system and eventually lead to a plumbing emergency. Homeowners should have their plumbing system inspected for signs of damage if they notice unusual sounds coming from the pipes. Ignoring the warnings of water hammers can lead to more costly repairs in the long run.
The pressure from the water hammer can quickly wear out valves and take years off the lifespan of plumbing fixtures. Another risk that homeowners should be aware of is that water hammers can cause pipes to leak and eventually burst. Water damage can cause serious damage to the property, especially if the moisture reaches electrical wiring.
Mold and mildew can begin to grow as a result of pipe leaks. When the leak is hidden in the walls or floors, homeowners may not notice it until water damage and mold growth is widespread. Paying attention to noisy water pipes can help homeowners identify potential plumbing issues before any damage worsens.
How is a Water Hammer Fixed?
Noisy pipes could be an indicator that there is a problem with the plumbing system that needs immediate attention. Homeowners should call a trusted local plumbing company to solve the problem as soon as they notice the warning signs. It requires an experienced and qualified plumber to fix a water hammer safely.
The first thing a plumber will do is inspect the plumbing and find the source of the problem. Then the plumber will be able to recommend solutions to the homeowner. It may require installing a water pressure regulator, air chambers, or new pipes to fix the water hammer.
Tightening loose parts can help to prevent shaking pipes from banging around in the walls. A water hammer can cause pipe connections to come apart, so tightening loose parts can help prevent a leak. Plumbing systems that do not have air chambers can install mechanical shock arrestors to avoid water hammers.
About Henco Plumbing Services
Henco Plumbing Services provides award-winning customer service to Vancouver, WA residents, and the surrounding areas. They offer flat-rate pricing, same-day service, and financing. Call them today for plumbing services in Vancouver, WA.
