A home’s plumbing system is a marvel of modern engineering, allowing for the efficient delivery of fresh, clean water to faucets, appliances, and fixtures with ease. However, as with any intricate system, the way the water travels within pipes can sometimes lead to issues that disrupt household comfort. One such common problem is water hammer—an abrupt, loud banging noise that occurs when water flowing through the pipes is suddenly stopped. This sudden stop can generate shockwaves within the plumbing system, potentially causing damage to the pipes, valves, and fixtures.
At OVC Plumbing and Drain, we often hear from frazzled homeowners about these unsettling sounds and the potential damage they can cause. The good news is that a relatively simple yet essential solution exists in the form of air chambers. In this article, we will explore the phenomenon of water hammer, delve into the crucial role that air chambers play in preventing it, and offer insight into how homeowners can maintain these important components to ensure a well-functioning and quiet plumbing system.
What Is Water Hammer?
Water hammer, technically referred to as hydraulic shock, occurs when a valve in the plumbing system is closed suddenly, causing the flow of water to abruptly stop. Water, unlike air, is incompressible, meaning it cannot be squeezed into a smaller space. When a closed valve halts the momentum of moving water, the water forcefully hits the obstacle, creating a shockwave that reverberates through the pipes. This shockwave is often heard as a loud banging or knocking sound, which can be both disturbing and damaging over time.
The Potential Damage Caused By Water Hammer
While the noise associated with water hammer is certainly alarming, the true risk lies in the damage it can cause to the plumbing system. Repeated instances of hydraulic shock can lead to the loosening of pipe joints, cracks in the pipe walls, or even full-scale pipe bursts. Additionally, valves, faucets, and other sensitive plumbing components can suffer from accelerated wear and tear, requiring premature replacement. In extreme cases, the excessive force generated by water hammer may even result in structural damage to a building, as vibrations can affect walls and flooring.
What Are Air Chambers?
Air chambers are vertical sections of pipe, typically located near fixtures or appliances, that serve as a cushion or buffer for the water flow within a plumbing system. These chambers are intentionally left filled with air rather than water. Since air is compressible, the air chamber can absorb the energy from the water as it is forced to stop abruptly, preventing the formation of shockwaves and, by extension, eliminating water hammer.
How Air Chambers Work
When a valve or faucet is suddenly closed, the pressurized water inside the pipe attempts to continue its forward momentum. In a system without air chambers, this abrupt stop results in the force of the water impacting the valve or pipe walls directly, causing water hammer. However, when air chambers are installed, the air inside these chambers compresses, absorbing the shock and allowing the water to settle without creating excessive pressure within the pipes.
By functioning as a pressure-relief mechanism, air chambers not only reduce noise but also protect the integrity of the plumbing system. The compressed air in the chamber gradually returns to its original state, ready to absorb any subsequent pressure surges.
Preventing Water Hammer With Proper Air Chamber Installation
Air chambers are typically installed during the construction or remodeling phase of a home’s plumbing system. They are positioned at key points where sudden valve closures are most likely to occur—such as near washing machines, dishwashers, faucets, or toilets. These points are prone to causing water hammer because the valves controlling water flow in these areas tend to open and close quickly, creating the conditions necessary for hydraulic shock.
Installing air chambers requires careful planning to ensure they are positioned correctly to maximize their effectiveness. A professional plumber, like those at OVC Plumbing and Drain, will consider factors such as the size of the pipe, water pressure, and the location of valves and appliances when installing these crucial components.
Retrofitting Air Chambers In Existing Homes
In older homes, or in cases where air chambers were not included during the initial plumbing installation, retrofitting air chambers can be an effective solution to address water hammer. In some cases, a plumber can install simple vertical pipes filled with air in key locations to prevent hydraulic shock. However, more modern solutions, such as water hammer arrestors, may also be used. These devices are similar to air chambers but come pre-engineered with a piston that absorbs the shock and can be more easily installed in tight spaces.
Maintenance Of Air Chambers
Over time, air chambers can lose their effectiveness if water displaces the air inside the chamber. This occurs when air dissolves into the water over time or when water enters the air chamber, leaving little space for compression. If an air chamber fills with water, it can no longer absorb the pressure surges caused by water hammer.
To maintain the functionality of air chambers, they need to be “recharged” periodically. Recharging involves shutting off the water supply to the house and draining the system. As the water drains from the pipes, air naturally refills the air chambers. Once the system is refilled with water, the air chambers are once again ready to absorb any pressure spikes.
Recognizing The Signs Of Malfunctioning Air Chambers
If water hammer begins to occur after years of quiet operation, it may be a sign that the air chambers are no longer functioning correctly. Aside from the distinctive banging noise, other indicators include vibrating pipes, faucets that seem to shake when turned off, or unusually high water pressure. In such cases, it is advisable to contact a professional plumber to inspect the system and determine whether the air chambers need to be recharged, repaired, or replaced.
Alternatives To Air Chambers
As you can see, an air chamber is a reliable solution to the annoying problem of water hammer. However, there are other solutions that are also available.
Water Hammer Arrestors
In addition to traditional air chambers, water hammer arrestors are another option for mitigating hydraulic shock. Water hammer arrestors consist of a sealed chamber containing a piston and a spring. When a pressure surge occurs, the piston compresses, absorbing the shock without relying on trapped air that can eventually dissipate. Water hammer arrestors are particularly effective in systems where space is limited, or where traditional air chambers cannot be easily installed or maintained.
Pressure Reducing Valves
Another alternative to controlling water hammer is the installation of pressure-reducing valves. These valves regulate the overall water pressure in the plumbing system, ensuring that the pressure remains within safe levels even when appliances are suddenly turned off. By maintaining steady water pressure, pressure-reducing valves help to prevent the conditions that lead to water hammer, thereby reducing the likelihood of hydraulic shock.
Looking To Rid Your Home Of The Consequences Of Water Hammer?
The phenomenon of water hammer is not only disruptive but also a potential cause of long-term damage to a home’s plumbing system. Fortunately, air chambers offer a simple yet highly effective solution to this issue. By absorbing the shock caused by sudden valve closures, air chambers protect pipes, fittings, and fixtures from the damaging effects of hydraulic shock. Regular maintenance and timely recharging of air chambers are crucial to ensuring their ongoing effectiveness.
We understand the importance of maintaining a quiet, efficient, and safe plumbing system. Whether you need air chambers installed, recharged, or inspected—or if you are considering alternative solutions like water hammer arrestors—our team of skilled professionals at OVC Plumbing and Drains is ready to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or to learn more about how we can protect your home from the damaging effects of water hammer. Your peace of mind depends on it!
