Sometimes you might just think your home’s pipes are settling. At least, that’s what you tell yourself. That spooky knocking sound isn’t a ghost. It’s caused by something called a water hammer. Technically, water hammer is known as hydraulic shock, but for the most part, homeowners probably aren’t going to recognize that term. The hammering comes from water that stops suddenly or changes direction abruptly. What you hear is the shockwave that this produces.
Fix Loosened Pipes
Our first suggestion is to find and fix any loose pipes that you might have in your home. Look in places where the pipes are more easily visible, like in the basement. Loose straps and hangers might be part of the problem. The pipes could be moving due to this issue. So the only solution is to fix them. How can you go about doing that? After all, most homeowners aren’t licensed plumbers. One suggestion is to use foam insulation. While this sounds like an odd piece of advice, they are meant to be shock-absorbers and muffle any noise associated with it.
Consider Adding an Air Chamber
Now then, there’s more to do. Consider adding an air chamber. Installing an air chamber is actually pretty easy to do. However, this only helps if you can find the source of the knocking caused by the water hammer. The air chamber provides a handy cushion that helps redirect the water if there is a change in direction. While many commercial options are available, these are easier for handy homeowners to deal with. If you’re not sure how to do it, then you’ll need to consult a professional plumber who knows what they are doing. Air chambers need to be drained from time to time so that they will keep working the way that they are supposed to, especially as they get older.
Also, Consider A Pressure Regulator
Finally, consider adding a pressure regulator to your setup. Exceedingly high water pressure can also lead to the distinctive knocking sound left behind by the water hammer issue. The pressure should only be between 30 and 55 psi. Pressure higher than these levels can make a ton of noise and even begin to degrade your appliances. Pressure regulators can protect your pipes.
All of Your Plumbing Needs from Master Plumbing
Give Master Plumbing a call at (301) 650-9100 or contact us online to get more information on how our expert plumbers can help you with your dripping faucet (or just about anything else plumbing related!). We have received Angie’s List Super Service Award recognition for plumbing and drain cleaning every year since 2007, in addition to the Best Plumber award from Best of Bethesda. We are fully licensed, bonded, and insured and our service is unparalleled. Give us a call today—you won’t regret it! To see examples of our projects, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.