Effects Of Water Hammer And How A Plumber Can Help | Knoxville, TN
Friday, September 16th, 2022
A water hammer is a common plumbing issue in any home. It happens when water pressure causes a sudden increase in pressure, leading to a “hammering” effect inside the pipes. Water hammer is usually a minor issue, but if left untreated, it can lead to severe problems with your plumbing and even potential leaks. To prevent this from happening, there are several things you should know about water hammer and have a plumbing technician institute measures to reduce the risk of it happening in your Knoxville, TN home. Reducing this problem requires having a plumber install special valves and springs in each faucet or fixture. Below are some of the effects of a water hammer.
Damaging the Pipes
A water hammer is essentially a pressure buildup in the pipes. It’s caused by the sudden release of pressure, not the water itself. This sudden pressure change typically happens when you turn off the water at a faucet. When the water is flowing normally, the pressure is relatively high.
However, when the water is turned off, the pressure is suddenly released, causing the sudden pressure change that leads to the “hammering” effect inside the pipes. While this is a common plumbing issue, it can also lead to severe damage in your home. If left unattended by a plumber, a water hammer can cause the pipes to crack, leak, or even burst. This can result in thousands of dollars in damage to your home.
Water Hammer Can Cause Leaks
A common sign of a water hammer is a leak in your plumbing. Although this can be a severe problem, it’s also a good indicator that you must take care of the issue immediately. If you notice a leak in your plumbing, the first step is determining where it’s coming from. You can do so by having a plumber conduct an inspection.
A leak in your plumbing may be caused by many things, including a water hammer. It can happen if you have a high water pressure or your plumbing fixtures have serious problems. If you have a leak in your plumbing, it’s important to fix it as quickly as possible to prevent it from causing major damage.
Your Toilet Might Break
A water hammer can lead to serious damage to your toilet. It can make your toilet leak due to a high-pressure change of the water flowing in the tank, resulting in you using a fortune for repairs. A leaky toilet can also create a foul smell and result in a messy cleanup. If you notice a leak in the tank, it’s likely due to a clog and you should call a plumber to clear it right away.
A clog in the toilet tank is common and often occurs due to a buildup of minerals in the tank. Mineral clogs can be easily removed with a toilet cleaner. When you clean the tank, make sure you also clean the bowl. It’s important to keep your toilet clean to prevent mineral buildup.
It Can Bend or Break Your Sink Drain
A water hammer can also cause damage to your sink drain. It can lead to a clog in the drain, creating a foul smell and causing water to back up into your sink. In addition to clogs, a water hammer can bend your drain due to pressure changes in the pipes. This is most common in older homes where the plumbing is not properly installed.
If you notice a foul smell coming from your drain, it’s likely due to a clog. A clog in your drain can be dangerous and may require you to call a plumber. If a clog is not cleared, it can cause a major issue, such as a broken drain, a backed-up sewer line, or even a flooded basement.
You Risk Creating a Larger Problem If the Pipes Break
A water hammer can cause serious damage to your pipes, including a leak or a break. If the pipes break, you risk flooding your Knoxville, TN home and causing thousands of dollars in damage. A leak in the pipes is also dangerous because it can cause the growth of bacteria. A leak can create an unpleasant smell and cause damage to your flooring. You can reduce the risk of a leak or break in the pipes by calling a plumber to deal with the causes of the water hammer at your home immediately after you hear it.
Your Washer Might Break Due to Water Hammer
A water hammer can also lead to damage to your washer and dryer. It can cause a clog in the drain in your washer and create a foul smell when the scum and other materials attached to the walls of the discharge pipe are dislodged by the back-flowing currents.
A broken washer might cost you a fortune when you eventually call a plumber to fix or replace it. It can also prevent you from doing laundry and create a messy cleanup. You can reduce the risk of a water hammer by installing pressure-reducing valves in your plumbing.
It Could Lead to Serious Structural Damage
The sudden pressure change that causes a water hammer can also cause serious structural damage in your home. It can lead to cracks in your walls, ceilings, and foundation due to the sudden pressure change in the pipes. If you notice cracks in your walls, ceilings, or foundation, it’s important to have a plumber inspect the pipes for water hammer and, if it is indeed the cause, act to prevent even more serious damage.
Is Water Hammer Causing You Problems?
A water hammer is a common plumbing issue that can lead to serious damage in your Knoxville, TN, home. It can be prevented by installing pressure-reducing valves in your plumbing. Contact our reliable and experienced plumbers at My Professional Plumber today for a prompt resolution to this problem.