What’s that hammering noise?

Why do I hear a hammering noise coming from my pipes? Is this a common plumbing issue and how can Doherty Plumbing Solutions help?

Emergency plumbing Glen Waverley

An anxious customer from Glen Waverley reached out to us, suspecting a fault in their hot water plumbing connection. They had heard strange noises coming from the pipework when the hot water taps were turned off in their laundry, bathroom and powder room.

Doherty Plumbing Solutions’ licensed plumbing professional George was at the scene to resolve the problem.

After an inspection, George detected the cause of the noise was water hammer occurring inside the connection.

He looked into the Aquamax gas storage heater unit outside the building and located the faulty duo valve that was quite old. After isolating the water supply, George replaced the old valve and re-connected the supply line directly to hot water outlet. Then, the plumbing fixtures inside the house were all tested. The situation was much improved!

Well done, George.

What is ‘water hammer’ effect?

Water hammer, or hydraulic shock, involves a sudden shock experienced by the water flow inside a pipeline, after it has encountered a blockage (such as a shut-off valve). Once the flowing water hits this block, the water molecules’ tendency is to retrace their flow in the opposite direction, when they collide with the incoming molecules. This sudden change in direction of the water creates a huge pressure surge moving pipes, causing a banging sound.

How can high water pressure damage pipes?

The increased pressure build-up due to a water hammer effect can not only damage pipelines, but also cause cracks that lead to water leaks. They can even harm the various valve systems in the plumbing connections, snowballing into additional effects on connected appliances. For example, it can blow off the diaphragm in pressure tanks resulting in irregular water flow, or affect water meters.

How to tackle the water hammer issue?

It is crucial to maintain the pipelines regularly with the help of professional services, such as Doherty Plumbing Solutions. Undertaking checks of the pipework, ensuring there are no blockages, and fitting pipes in correct alignment, are important first steps that can help in the long run.

Additional measures could also include the following:

  • Fitting valves that close slowly to prevent sudden blockage.
  • Ensuring pipelines have built-in provisions for air chambers, which act as shock absorbers to reduce the effects of accumulating pressure.

Who can help with water hammer issues?

Don’t let a water hammer issue cause extensive damage to the plumbing connections and fixtures. Act fast, TODAY!

At Doherty Plumbing Solutions, we are here to help you tackle the bang and prevent a potential disaster in your home or business.

Contact our team at:

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    Guys arrived on time ..they were very clear as to what our job required and in no time fixed our issue..I would highly recommend Doherty Plumbing!
    Janet halley Avatar
    Janet halley
    2/29/2024
    George came; did my work quietly and respectfully. Noted a problem (big gaping crack in the pipe under the bench), and asked if we would like to change it. No pressure applied, and just added it to his list when I gave the go ahead. Would use this company again and again.
    Kath Edney Avatar
    Kath Edney
    3/30/2024
    Great service, arrived on time and fixed our burst garden pipe quickly. Very happy with the service, would use Doherty Plumbing again.
    Anna Stewart Avatar
    Anna Stewart
    2/29/2024
    Brian Doherty and his team provided first class service for several gas/electric requirements we had. The plumbing staff were excellent, fully capable, and very easy to work with. Most highly recommended service.
    PJB Avatar
    PJB
    9/13/2024
    Had a very positive experience with Doherty Plumbing. Easy to book, scheduled conveniently and on the day George went above and beyond to do a great job and go the extra mile with cleaning up. Very happy and would definitely use again.
    David Spong Avatar
    David Spong
    8/20/2023
    I rang them early morning & they arrived on the same day. They found the leak which was under the house, fixed it promptly. The plumber was helpful & friendly, communicated well. I'll use them again.
    Elizabeth Avatar
    Elizabeth
    8/13/2024
    Quick and efficient. The work was done as quoted and unlike many tradies they turned up when they said they would. Very happy with there work.
    Tony G Avatar
    Tony G
    12/13/2024
    Very happy with service I have received!! Problem wasn't easy to find ( leaking pipe somewhere under the house ) but I was surprised how fast Tim find the problem!!! Nothing was too much trouble for him!!! If in trouble or for any plumbing work I will use Doherty Plumbing again for sure!
    Vladek Chennek Avatar
    Vladek Chennek
    7/20/2023
    Fantastic service. I called with a question about my hot water service and within 24hrs Brian had been out and fixed the problem. Great service, great turnaround times and fair pricing too.
    Emily Kermac Avatar
    Emily Kermac
    4/09/2024
    The team from Doherty Plumbing responded promptly to my emergency call to unblock the sewer drain in our backyard. Tim and Angus were professional, courteous and thorough in their work. I highly recommend this business to take care of your plumbing issues.
    Donna O'Keeffe Avatar
    Donna O'Keeffe
    12/30/2023
    For reliable plumbing services, call 03 9877 5775 or 0417 577 432