What is a Water Hammer Arrestor?

You may have heard loud banging noises from your pipes, which can be one of the most blatant indicators of a water hammer. 

Thank goodness for the little invention called the water arrestor, also commonly known as the anti hammer valve.

This is a simple but strong tool in your plumbing maintenance arsenal, and the installation of one can hold the secret to getting rid of that banging noise once and for all.

Let’s explore what these devices are, how they operate, and how they can significantly impact your home’s plumbing! 

What is a Water Hammer Arrestor?

Wondering how to stop the water hammer? It’s the jarring sound that results from changes in direction or stoppages in the water flow within your plumbing system. 

That shock creates a shockwave and thus leads to those really loud and unsettling noises. Over time, these will weaken your pipes and lead to leaks or bursts.

So, how can a water hammer arrestor help? 

It acts like that cushion that absorbs the sudden stop of water, not allowing those shockwaves to reverberate through the plumbing system. 

Water hammer arrestor can also increase water pressure efficiency in your system. By relieving stress from your pipes, it allows a non-fluctuating and smooth water flow through your home.

How Does It Work?

Now that you understand what a water hammer arrestor is, let’s dive into how it actually works. 

When water suddenly stops or changes direction in your pipes, the force it generates has to go somewhere. 

Without an arrestor, that force creates a shockwave, leading to loud banging noises and potential damage, which is where a water hammer arrestor saves the day.

Inside the water hammer arrestor, there is a chamber sealed with either air or spring mechanism . The arrestor absorbs the excess force of the spiking water pressure to prevent the shockwave from traveling through your pipes. 

It’s like giving your plumbing system a buffer zone to ensure those pressure surges don’t turn into damaging vibrations.

In a way, the water hammer arrestor protects the critical components of your plumbing, such as the water hammer valve and other fixtures, by neutralizing such surges. Plus, it eliminates the annoying sound of air in water pipes, so you have a quieter and more efficient system overall.

Other benefits of using a water hammer arrestor include:

• Prevents Damage. Repeated pressure surges can weaken your pipes and joints over time. An arrestor stops this damage before it starts.
• Reduces Noise. Say goodbye to loud, disruptive banging noises every time you turn off a tap or your washing machine finishes a cycle.
• Prolongs Plumbing Life. By reducing strain on your system, a water hammer arrestor helps your pipes, valves, and fixtures last longer.

Where Should a Water Hammer Arrestor be Installed?

Knowing where to install a water hammer arrestor in the right spot is key to solving water hammer issues effectively. 

If it’s placed too far from the affected area, the device might not function optimally. 

That’s why it’s essential to pressure test your plumbing system first. This will help identify areas where pressure surges are occurring so the arrestor is installed exactly where it’s needed.

These are some of the common installation points:

1. Appliances that Use Water. Washing machines and dishwashers are common culprits of water hammer because they stop water flow abruptly. Installing an arrestor near these appliances can drastically reduce the issue.
2. Plumbing fixtures. Fixtures like faucets, showers, and toilets can also create a water hammer. Adding an arrestor near these points can protect your entire plumbing system.
3. High-Pressure Zones: If your water pressure is on the higher side, consider installing an arrestor at key junctures in your piping to ensure smooth flow.

FAQ about Water Hammer Arrestor

Let’s tackle some of the most common questions homeowners have about water hammer arrestors. 

How do I know if I require a water hammer arrestor?

If your pipes make loud banging or thudding noises when you turn off a faucet or when an appliance like a washing machine finishes its cycle, you’re likely dealing with a water hammer. 

This problem happens when water’s abrupt stop creates pressure surges in your pipes. Installing an anti water hammer device or a pipe hammer arrestor is a practical solution to eliminate these noises and prevent potential damage. 

Why are my pipes still banging with a water hammer arrestor?

If the banging noise persists even after installing a water hammer arrestor, it might indicate that the device is no longer functioning effectively or wasn’t installed correctly. 

Over time, the internal parts of the arrestor, such as air chambers or springs, may wear out. 

Alternatively, the arrestor may not be positioned close enough to the source of the water hammer, or your plumbing system might need additional devices. 

What is the life expectancy of a water hammer arrestor?

A well-maintained water hammer arrestor can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years. In areas with hard water, mineral buildup can shorten the lifespan of the device. 

Regular maintenance and cleaning can help keep your pipe hammer arrestor in excellent condition.

How to install a water hammer arrestor in your house?

Start by turning off the water supply to avoid any leaks. Then, find the source of the water hammer-usually near appliances or fixtures like washing machines or dishwashers-and attach the arrestor using threaded connections or compression fittings. 

Once installed, turn the water back on and test the system to make sure the device works properly. 

If you are not comfortable installing one yourself, a professional plumber will be able to install an anti-water hammer device quickly and efficiently for you.

Conclusion

A water hammer issue does not have to cause you and your family members chronic headaches. The water hammer arrestor is the ideal solution for those loud disruptive noises and will protect your plumbing system from unnecessary wear and tear. 

For all of you Melbourne residents who require the installation of hammer arrestors, then please do not hesitate to contact us at Neighbourhood Plumbing!