Silence Those Annoying Pipe Bangs: A Water Hammer Arrester Installation Guide

Updated at: 28/05/2025

The rhythmic BANG! BANG! BANG! echoing through your pipes – the telltale sign of water hammer – is more than just annoying; it can be damaging to your plumbing system over time. This unsettling noise occurs when water abruptly stops moving in your pipes, creating pressure surges that cause those disruptive bangs. Ignoring the problem only allows the damage to worsen, potentially leading to leaks, pipe failures, and costly repairs. Fortunately, a simple solution exists: installing a water hammer arrester. These inexpensive devices effectively absorb the shock waves, restoring peaceful quiet to your home.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step process for installing a water hammer arrester, empowering you to tackle this common plumbing issue yourself. Whether you're a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a complete novice, we'll walk you through each stage, ensuring a successful and quiet outcome. Let's silence those annoying pipe bangs once and for all!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Water hammer arresters
  • Pipe cutter
  • Soldering iron
  • Flux
  • Solder
  • Teflon tape
  • Open-end adjustable wrench
  • Access panel
  • Pipe clips
Safety Guidelines
  • Always turn off the water supply to the affected pipe before starting any work. Failure to do so could result in flooding and injury.
  • Water hammer arresters must be installed correctly according to the manufacturer's instructions. Improper installation can render the arrester ineffective or even damage your plumbing system.
  • If you are uncomfortable working with plumbing, consult a qualified plumber. Incorrect installation can lead to leaks and further damage.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Problem Diagnosis and Preparation

    • Locate the source of the banging noise. It's often near pipes.
    • Identify the affected pipes (hot and cold).
    • Access the pipes. This may involve removing an access panel.
    Access the pipes. This may involve removing an access panel.Access the pipes. This may involve removing an access panel.
    Problem Diagnosis and Preparation

  2. Water Shut-off and Pipe Preparation

    • Turn off the water supply and drain the pipes.
    • Clean the pipes before cutting.
    Clean the pipes before cutting.Clean the pipes before cutting.
    Water Shut-off and Pipe Preparation

  3. Pipe Cutting and T-fitting Installation

    • Cut the pipes using a pipe cutter for a clean cut. Allow extra length for the T-fitting.
    • Apply flux to the pipes and fittings.
    • Connect the T-fittings to the pipes using solder.
    Connect the T-fittings to the pipes using solder.Connect the T-fittings to the pipes using solder.Connect the T-fittings to the pipes using solder.
    Pipe Cutting and T-fitting Installation

  4. Arrester Installation

    • Apply Teflon tape to the threads of the water hammer arresters.
    • Screw the water hammer arresters into the T-fittings and tighten using an adjustable wrench.
    Screw the water hammer arresters into the T-fittings and tighten using an adjustable wrench.Screw the water hammer arresters into the T-fittings and tighten using an adjustable wrench.
    Arrester Installation

  5. Final Steps and Testing

    • Secure the pipes with clips to prevent movement.
    • Replace the access panel.
    • Test the system by turning the water on and off quickly.
    Test the system by turning the water on and off quickly. Test the system by turning the water on and off quickly.
    Final Steps and Testing

Read more: Fixing a Leaky Toilet Tank: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tips

  • Using a pipe cutter creates a cleaner cut than a hacksaw.
  • Water hammer arresters should be installed on both hot and cold water lines.
  • Securing pipes prevents movement and reduces the chance of future banging noises.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incorrect Arrester Placement

Reason: Installing the arrester too far from the source of the water hammer (e.g., a faucet or appliance) reduces its effectiveness.
Solution: Mount the arrester as close as possible to the fixture or appliance causing the banging.

2. Using an Arrester of the Wrong Size

Reason: An arrester that's too small for the pipe diameter won't adequately absorb the shock wave, while one that's too large might restrict water flow.
Solution: Select an arrester with a pipe size matching your plumbing system's specifications.

FAQs

What size water hammer arrester do I need?
The size of the arrester should match the pipe diameter where you're installing it. Measure your pipe's diameter (internal diameter is key) and select an arrester with the same or slightly larger size rating. Always check the arrester's specifications to ensure compatibility with your plumbing system's pressure and flow rate.