That loud banging noise in your pipes when you turn off a tap is known as water hammer. It may seem harmless, but it can damage your plumbing over time.
What Is Water Hammer?
Water hammer happens when flowing water suddenly stops or changes direction, creating a shockwave through the pipes.
Common Causes
- Sudden valve shut-off
- High water pressure
- Loose pipe fittings
- Lack of air chambers in the system
Why It’s a Problem
Repeated shockwaves can loosen pipe joints, damage fittings, and eventually lead to leaks or burst pipes inside your walls.
How It’s Fixed
Depending on the cause, solutions may include:
- Installing water hammer arrestors
- Adjusting water pressure
- Securing loose pipework
- Reconfiguring sections of plumbing
Don’t Ignore the Noise
If your pipes are banging, it’s not normal. LOUW BROS can diagnose and fix the issue before it leads to costly damage.
