Have you ever turned off a faucet and heard a loud banging or knocking sound in your walls? This alarming noise is more than just an annoyance: it’s often a sign of a common plumbing issue known as water hammer. If your pipes are making strange noises, it’s important not to ignore them. Acting quickly can prevent more serious plumbing problems down the road.
Understanding Water Hammer
Water hammer occurs when a valve or faucet is shut off quickly, causing the flow of water to suddenly stop. Because water is cannot be compressed, the abrupt halt in flow sends a shockwave through your plumbing system. This pressure wave can cause pipes to vibrate or bang against the walls, floor, or other plumbing components.
Normally, air chambers or water hammer arrestors are built into the plumbing to absorb this shock and reduce noise. However, over time, these air chambers can fill with water or become less effective. Once this happens, the pipes can’t absorb the pressure change, and that’s when you start hearing the knocking sounds.
Other Potential Causes of Noisy Pipes
While water hammer is the most common reason for knocking pipes, it’s not the only one. Other possible culprits include:
- Loose or unsecured pipes: If pipes aren’t properly fastened, they can move when water flows through them, causing rattling or banging.
- High water pressure: Excessive water pressure can strain your pipes and cause them to vibrate or make noise.
- Worn or faulty valves: Valves that are not operating correctly can create turbulence in the water flow, resulting in noise.
- Sediment buildup: In water heaters and pipes, sediment can create blockages that disrupt water flow, leading to noise or even damage over time.
Regardless of the source, it’s never a good idea to ignore knocking or banging in your plumbing system. These sounds can be an early warning sign of a problem that, if left unchecked, could lead to burst pipes, leaks, or water damage.
Why You Should Call a Professional
Diagnosing the cause of water pipes knocking in Evanston, IL requires plumbing expertise. A professional plumber can inspect your system, identify the exact cause of the noise, and provide the right solution, whether it’s draining air chambers, installing water hammer arrestors, securing loose pipes, or adjusting your water pressure.
Attempting to fix these issues without the right tools and experience could lead to further complications or even damage your plumbing system. That’s why it’s always best to leave it to the professionals.
Don’t Ignore the Signs: Contact Us Today
If your pipes are knocking, banging, or making any other unusual noises, don’t wait until it becomes a bigger problem. Our team of experienced plumbers is here to help. We’ll quickly identify the issue and provide lasting, professional repairs to restore peace and quiet to your home and protect your plumbing system from future damage.
Reach out to us today to schedule an inspection and put a stop to noisy, troublesome pipes. With prompt and reliable service, we’ll ensure your plumbing system is safe, secure, and operating as quietly as it should.
For expert help with water pipes knocking, contact Reliance Plumbing Sewer & Drainage, Inc. Our knowledgeable plumbers serve the North Shore and Northwest Chicago suburbs. Rely on Reliance!