Water Hammers and Knocking Pipes: Causes and Fixes
How to Diagnose and Stop Noisy Pipes in Your Home
Hearing any strange noise in your home can be alarming. However, you might be dealing with water hammers or knocking pipes if you hear a loud knocking, banging, or thudding noise when turning off a faucet or running an appliance. These sounds aren't just annoying—they can be signs of pressure issues in your plumbing system that could lead to pipe damage if left unchecked. Let's explore what causes and how to fix hammers and knocking pipes.
What Causes Knocking and Banging Noises in Pipes?
Several factors can lead to loud knocking sounds in your pipes. Understanding the underlying cause is key to finding the proper fix.
Water Hammer (Hydraulic Shock)
A water hammer happens when a fast-moving stream suddenly stops or changes direction, creating a shockwave inside the pipes. This often occurs when you turn off a faucet quickly, a washing machine or dishwasher stops filling, or your toilet tank refills after flushing. Over time, the constant pressure changes from the water hammer can loosen pipe joints, cause leaks, and damage fixtures.
Loose Pipes
When pipes are not securely fastened inside the wall, they can move around when water is turned on or off, causing rattling or knocking noises. This is common in older homes where pipes may have loosened over time or in newer homes where contractors fail to install pipe brackets properly.
High Water Pressure
Excessively high water pressure can cause pipes to vibrate, shake, or make loud noises when appliances or sprinklers turn on or off. Anything above the recommended water pressure for a home may cause:
- Unstable water flow
- Increased wear and tear on plumbing fixtures
- Potential long-term damage to pipes
At CW Service Pros, we provide pressure testing services to check if high water pressure is causing your plumbing noises.
How to Fix Noisy Pipes and Water Hammer Issues
As previously mentioned, the solution to noisy pipes and water hammer issues depends on the underlying issue. Here are a few common solutions.
Install Water Hammer Arrestors
A water hammer arrestor is a small device that absorbs shockwaves to prevent pipe banging. Adding arrestors to high-impact appliances like dishwashers and washing machines can reduce noise and pressure fluctuations.
Secure Loose Pipes
Securing loose pipes with brackets or foam insulation can prevent movement and eliminate rattling. A licensed plumber from CW Service Pros can inspect and reinforce any loose or vibrating pipes to restore stability. Though this process fixes the issue, it also means that sheetrock may have to be removed to make these changes.
Reduce Water Pressure
If high water pressure is the cause, installing a pressure-reducing valve (PRV) can help stabilize the system. A PRV controls the water flow, preventing excessive pressure buildup that can lead to knocking noises. At CW Service Pros, we offer upfront pricing and expert installation for PRVs to help avoid costly plumbing damage.
FAQs About Noisy Pipes
If you have questions about noisy pipes, CW Service Pros has answers. Check out FAQs about water hammers and knocking pipes.
What Causes Knocking Sounds in My Pipes?
Water hammers, loose pipes, or high water pressure may cause knocking pipes. The sudden stopping or starting of water flow creates a shockwave, making pipes bang against walls or fixtures. Loose pipes can rattle, and high water pressure can cause excessive vibration.
How Can I Fix Water Hammer Issues?
Repairing water hammer issues involves using water hammer arrestors, securing loose pipes, and regulating water pressure. If the issue doesn't stop, a professional plumber can diagnose the root cause and provide a permanent solution.
Contact CW Service Pros for Noisy Pipe Repair
Noisy pipes can be more than an inconvenience—they can be a warning sign of potential plumbing issues. If your home gives you warning signs, CW Service Pros can provide a fast, cost-effective solution! Contact us today for the answers and peace of mind you deserve. Call CW Service Pros today or schedule an appointment online to restore quiet, efficient plumbing in your home.
