Introduction

If you hear loud banging, knocking, or thudding when you shut off a faucet or when appliances stop drawing water, your plumbing system is likely experiencing water hammer. While the noise can be startling, the real concern comes from the stress these pressure surges place on pipes, valves, and fixtures. Over time, repeated water hammer can cause leaks, joint failures, and costly plumbing repairs.

What Causes Water Hammer

Water hammer happens when moving water stops suddenly. Because water carries momentum, a fast closing valve forces that energy to stop instantly. With nowhere to go, the pressure surges back through the pipes. This sudden force creates a pressure wave that makes pipes vibrate or bang against framing and other surfaces.

Modern appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, and ice makers commonly trigger water hammer because they use solenoid valves that shut off instantly. Homes with high water pressure experience these problems more frequently because increased pressure intensifies the shock.

What Is a Water Hammer Arrestor

A water hammer arrestor is a plumbing device that absorbs sudden pressure changes. Inside the arrestor, a sealed chamber holds air or gas separated from water by a piston or diaphragm. When water flow stops abruptly, the excess pressure moves into this chamber. The chamber cushions the shock and prevents it from slamming into the pipes.

Unlike older air chambers, modern arrestors use sealed designs that maintain their effectiveness over time.

Where Water Hammer Arrestors Are Installed

Plumbers typically install arrestors close to the fixture or appliance causing the problem. Common locations include behind washing machines, under sinks for dishwashers, near refrigerator ice makers, and at shutoff valves for toilets and faucets. Correct placement plays a critical role in how well the arrestor protects the plumbing system.

Benefits of Installing a Water Hammer Arrestor

Installing a water hammer arrestor reduces noise, protects pipe joints, and extends the life of appliances and fixtures. It also helps prevent long term damage from repeated pressure stress, which can weaken pipes and cause hidden leaks behind walls or ceilings.

When to Call a Professional

Some homeowners install water hammer arrestors themselves, but correct sizing and placement matter. A licensed plumber can evaluate your plumbing system, measure water pressure, and install the proper arrestors to fully resolve the issue and prevent future damage.

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Our homes are never completely silent. We usually become accustomed to hearing the normal background sounds in our living spaces. That’s why it can be startling when a new noise is heard, like unexplained sounds in your pipes. What causes pipes to make noise and what should you do about it?

Expanding Copper Pipes

Copper pipes may expand when they come in contact with hot water. This is a characteristic of the metal used to make them. Pipes running through narrow spaces may rub against and hit surfaces when expansion occurs. This is usually a minor issue. If it is bothersome, you can try turning down the temperature on the water heater.

Potentially Damaging Water Hammer

If you hear a loud thud when the flow of water is stopped, you could be experiencing water hammer. This happens when rushing water cannot continue to move through the pipe and slams into a shut-off valve. The sound can be loud, and it can lead to damage to connections and joints. To correct, you should check your air chamber or install water hammer arrestors.

Too Much Water Pressure

Water pressure that is too high can cause noise in pipes. Most homes will have a pressure regulator. This is installed where the main water supply comes into the structure. It should allow water to enter at no lower than 40 psi and no higher than 80 psi. If psi is too high, pressure can cause damage to appliances that use water like the dishwasher or washing machine.

If your home does not have a pressure regulator, a professional can install one for you. Contact Putman & Son’s Plumbing to request a quote.

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