Is water hammer harmful?

Yes, over time the repeated shock can loosen joints and fittings and eventually cause leaks, so it's worth resolving rather than living with.

Why did my pipes suddenly start banging?

Air chambers gradually waterlog and lose their cushion, so hammer often shows up years into a home. Adding arrestors and recharging the chambers fixes it.

Troubleshooting

Banging Pipes (Water Hammer): Causes and Fixes

Pipes that bang when you shut off water is 'water hammer', the shock of fast-stopping water with no cushion. It's usually a failed air chamber or a missing water-hammer arrestor, and left alone it can loosen joints over time.

What to do right now

Try recharging the air chambers: shut off the main, open the highest and lowest faucets to drain the system, then close them and turn the water back on. This refills the air cushions.
If the banging is tied to the washer or dishwasher shutting off, it likely needs a water-hammer arrestor installed at that valve.
If recharging doesn't help, have your water pressure checked, since high pressure amplifies hammer and stresses the whole system.

Likely causes

Waterlogged air chambers that no longer cushion the flow
No water-hammer arrestors on fast-closing valves (washer, dishwasher)
High water pressure amplifying the shock
Loose pipe straps letting lines knock against framing

When to call a pro

If the quick fixes do not solve it, this is usually a leak detection job. Liberty dispatches 24/7 with upfront pricing.

Banging Pipes (Water Hammer): Causes and Fixes, FAQ

Is water hammer harmful?: Yes, over time the repeated shock can loosen joints and fittings and eventually cause leaks, so it's worth resolving rather than living with.
Why did my pipes suddenly start banging?: Air chambers gradually waterlog and lose their cushion, so hammer often shows up years into a home. Adding arrestors and recharging the chambers fixes it.

Same-day service24/7 emergency dispatch

(623) 473-0555 Book a visit