What Is Water Hammer and How Do You Fix It?

Water hammer is the banging or thumping sound that occurs when water flow is suddenly stopped — like when a washing machine valve closes quickly. The pressure wave travels through the pipes and creates the impact sound. It\'s caused by high water pressure, fast-closing valves, or missing air chambers in the plumbing. Fixes include: installing a water hammer arrestor near the offending fixture, reducing water pressure with a PRV, or adding air chambers to the supply lines. Left unaddressed, water hammer can loosen pipe fittings and damage valves over time.