Water Hammer Fix in Gatineau: Stop the Banging in Your Pipes
That loud banging or thudding noise when you shut off a faucet or when appliances stop filling isn't just annoying—it's water hammer, and it can damage your plumbing over time. Water hammer puts stress on pipes, joints, and appliances, potentially causing leaks and premature failures. Plombier Gatineau diagnoses and fixes water hammer problems throughout Gatineau.
What Is Water Hammer?
The Physics
Water flowing through pipes has momentum. When a valve closes suddenly, that momentum has nowhere to go. The result is a pressure spike—a shock wave that travels through the pipes, creating the characteristic banging noise. This pressure spike can reach several times normal operating pressure.
Why It's a Problem
Beyond the noise, water hammer can damage pipe joints and fittings, stress and eventually rupture pipes, harm appliances like washing machines and dishwashers, loosen pipe hangers and supports, and shorten the life of valves and fixtures.
Common Causes
Quick-Closing Valves
Modern single-lever faucets and solenoid valves in appliances close quickly, more likely to cause hammer than old-style multi-turn valves.
High Water Pressure
Higher pressure means more momentum and more severe hammer. Pressure over 80 PSI significantly increases risk.
Failed Air Chambers
Many homes have air chambers—short vertical pipes near fixtures that act as shock absorbers. Over time, these can become waterlogged and ineffective.
Loose Pipes
Pipes that aren't properly secured can bang against framing or other surfaces during pressure spikes.
Long Pipe Runs
Longer pipes contain more water with more momentum, making hammer more pronounced.
Solutions
Recharge Air Chambers
If your home has air chambers, draining the plumbing system and refilling can restore their function. Turn off water, open all faucets to drain, then close faucets and turn water back on.
Install Water Hammer Arrestors
These devices contain a sealed air chamber and piston that absorbs pressure spikes. They're installed near problem fixtures or appliances.
Pressure Reduction
If water pressure is too high, installing or adjusting a pressure reducing valve helps reduce hammer and protects your entire plumbing system.
Secure Loose Pipes
Properly securing pipes with appropriate hangers prevents movement and reduces noise even if some hammer occurs.
Slow-Closing Valves
For persistent problems, slow-closing valves or solenoid valves with gradual closing can be installed.
Professional Diagnosis
Water hammer can have multiple causes, and the solution depends on identifying the specific issues in your system. We evaluate your water pressure, check for failed air chambers, identify which fixtures trigger hammer, and recommend appropriate solutions.
Related Services
We also address water pressure problems, pipe leak repair, and complete plumbing diagnostics.
Areas Served
We fix water hammer throughout Gatineau, Hull, Aylmer, Chelsea, and surrounding areas.
Silence the Banging
Stop water hammer before it damages your plumbing. Call Plombier Gatineau at (819) 317-0262 for professional diagnosis and repair.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is water hammer dangerous?
Yes, over time water hammer can damage pipes, joints, and appliances. The pressure spikes can reach several times normal operating pressure.
Will water hammer go away on its own?
No, water hammer typically worsens over time as air chambers become waterlogged or pipes become looser from repeated stress.
Can I fix water hammer myself?
Recharging air chambers is a DIY task. Installing arrestors or other solutions typically requires professional service for best results.
How much does water hammer repair cost?
Costs vary depending on the solution needed. Simple fixes are affordable; more complex solutions cost more but protect your plumbing system.