Water hammer

When I turn the water off quickly at the kitchen sink, the pipes make a huge racket. It’s even worse at the kitchen sink on the third floor. Is there any danger of the supply pipes bursting? Is there something I can install to prevent the noise? Do I need a plumber or is this a do-it-yourself thing? These are wall-hung farmhouse sinks with American Standard faucets.

callalily

in Plumbers and Plumbing 13 years and 4 months ago

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callalily | 13 years and 4 months ago

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Thanks, everyone. Gennady, I didn’t tell the plumbers we had water hammer — didn’t think of it. We were moving the sink for another reason. I guess they didn’t notice it either.

wholesalerbill1 | 13 years and 4 months ago

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You could also have a loose pipe in a wall somewhere. When the water hammer occurs try to listen for the pipe rattling in the wall. You shouldn’t attempt putting in a hammer arrestor yourself. There are several very competant plumbing contractors who contribute here. Call one of them. In the mean time shut the faucet off slowly when in use.

callalily | 13 years and 4 months ago

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Thanks, Rick. It sounds like a water hammer arrester might work and that I will need a knowledgeable plumber to install one. Sigh — we just had one of the sinks removed and reinstalled the other week — they could have done it then! If only I had thought of it.

Rick | 13 years and 4 months ago

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Sounds like water hammer. Here’s a link to help you understand what’s going on. http://www.factsfacts.com/MyHomeRepair/PipeNoises.htm