Water Hammer and Water Pressure Issues: What Every Aussie Homeowner Should Know

Those Mysterious Banging Pipes (that's water hammer)

Have you ever turned off a tap only to hear an alarming bang echo through your home's plumbing? That startling noise, technically known as "water hammer" or "hydraulic shock", isn't just annoying. It's actually a warning sign that your plumbing system could be under stress and at risk of developing serious damage.

Many Australian homeowners dismiss these noises as a normal part of an ageing house, but ignoring water hammer can lead to costly repairs down the track. Even worse, the underlying issues causing water hammer often indicate other plumbing problems that could be silently damaging your home.

Potential Problems Caused by Water Hammer

Water hammer isn't just about the noise, though the constant banging can certainly drive you mad. The real concern is what's happening inside your pipes.

When water hammer occurs, powerful shockwaves travel through your plumbing system. These pressure surges can:

• Weaken pipe joints and connections over time
• Cause pipes to break loose from their mountings
• Damage expensive appliances like washing machines and dishwashers
• Eventually lead to leaks or even burst pipes

Perhaps most concerning, many Australian homes experience water hammer for months or even years before addressing it. During this time, the cumulative damage to your plumbing system continues to worsen. By the time you notice a leak or other serious issue, the repair costs may be significantly higher than if you'd addressed the water hammer earlier.

A loose pipe or worn stop valve today could end up costing you thousands of dollars tomorrow.

How to Identify and Fix Water Hammer

The good news is that water hammer can usually be diagnosed and fixed before serious damage occurs. Here's how to address this common plumbing issue:

First, Understand What's Causing Your Water Hammer

1. High Water Pressure

A common cause of water hammer is high water pressure. If your pressure is running near 100 psi, then it's likely the cause of your issue. Normal pressure should be approximately 30 to 55 psi. To solve this problem, consider installing a water pressure regulator.

2. Loose Pipes

When pipes aren't properly secured, even mild shockwaves can create loud bangs. Pipes should be fixed securely to a sturdy surface every couple of metres. Common areas for loose pipes include cellars, ceiling spaces, and airing cupboards.

3. Fast-Acting Valves

Modern appliances like washing machines and dishwashers use solenoid valves that shut off water instantly. This sudden stoppage creates shockwaves that travel through your pipes and cause banging. If the water hammer only occurs when using these appliances, the valves are likely the culprit.

4. Clogged Air Chambers

If water hammer suddenly appears when you've never experienced it before, your system's air chambers may be blocked with water or mineral deposits. These chambers normally absorb pressure in your system, but when blocked, they can't do their job.

5. Worn Stop Valves

Valves with loose gland packing or worn washers can contribute to water hammer. When a shockwave travels through your plumbing, it can rattle these components and create noise.

Practical Solutions on How To Stop Water Hammer Occurring

1. Install a Water Pressure Regulator

For many Australian homes, high water pressure is the primary cause of water hammer. A pressure regulator installed at your mains water line controls the pressure entering your home and protects your entire plumbing system.

Not only does this reduce water hammer, but it also helps extend the life of water-dependent appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, and toilets.

2. Secure Loose Pipes

Inspect accessible pipes for loose straps, bolts, or joists. Add pipe straps or tighten existing ones where needed. Remember not to mix different metals when securing pipes, a steel strap should not be used to secure a copper pipe as this can cause corrosion.

3. Install Water Hammer Arrestors

For a more sophisticated solution, consider installing water hammer arrestors. These devices use springs and air bladders to absorb water movement and reduce shockwaves. Unlike simple air chambers, they don't need to be drained periodically.

4. Wrap Pipes in Foam Insulation

While this won't fix the underlying cause, wrapping pipes in foam insulation can help absorb shock waves and reduce noise. This approach also provides the added benefit of protecting pipes from freezing in colder Australian regions.

5. Drain and Re-Air the System

If clogged air chambers are the issue, you may need to drain your plumbing system completely and then refill it. This allows air chambers to empty of water and restore their shock-absorbing capabilities.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

While some water hammer solutions can be DIY projects, others require professional expertise. Consider calling our team in Coffs Harbour if:

• You're unable to locate the source of the water hammer
• Your water pressure is consistently high despite adjustments
• The banging occurs throughout your plumbing system
• You've tried simple fixes without success
• You notice any signs of leaks or water damage

Our Coffs Harbour licensed plumbers can perform a comprehensive assessment of your system, accurately measure your water pressure, and implement the most effective long-term solution for your home.

Prevent Future Plumbing Issues

Regular maintenance can help prevent water hammer and other plumbing problems:

• Have your water pressure checked annually
• Inspect visible pipes for signs of movement or wear
• Consider upgrading older plumbing fixtures with slow-closing valves
• Install water-efficient appliances with proper valve technology
• Schedule routine plumbing inspections to catch issues early

Call Expert Plumbing Help Today

At Jetty Plumbing, we've been helping Australian homeowners solve water hammer and pressure problems for over 15 years. Our team of licensed plumbers serves [Your Service Area] with prompt, professional service.

Don't let water hammer damage your home's plumbing system. Contact us today on 0459 339 205 to schedule an inspection or request emergency plumbing assistance.