Does your washing machine make loud banging or knocking noises when it shuts off? If so, you’re not alone—many homeowners are startled by this common problem, known as water hammer. Beyond being annoying, these jolting sounds can damage your pipes over time, leading to costly repairs.
This article will demystify why water hammer happens and walk you through simple, effective steps to stop it. Get ready for practical tips you can use today for a quieter, safer laundry room.
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Understanding Water Hammer in Washing Machines
Is your washing machine making loud banging or knocking noises each time it cycles on or off? You’re likely experiencing a phenomenon called “water hammer.” Water hammer isn’t just an annoyance—it can harm your plumbing and appliances if ignored. Let’s break down what’s happening and how you can stop water hammer from your washing machine for good.
What Is Water Hammer?
Water hammer refers to the sudden thumping or banging noise that happens when water flow is quickly shut off inside your pipes. The rapid stop causes a shockwave through your plumbing system, which you hear as that characteristic bang or rattle. Washing machines are especially prone to causing water hammer because of their fast-acting solenoid valves, which open and close abruptly.
Why Should You Worry About Water Hammer?
- Noise Nuisance: The sound can be unsettling and disrupt your home’s tranquillity.
- Plumbing Damage: Repeated shockwaves can loosen pipe fittings, rupture pipes, or damage washing machine hoses.
- Appliance Wear: The repeated jarring impacts aren’t good for your washing machine’s lifespan either.
Luckily, solving water hammer isn’t as complicated as it may sound.
How to Stop Water Hammer from Your Washing Machine
Let’s explore several proven solutions—from the simplest DIY adjustments to more involved preventive measures.
1. Secure Loose Pipes
Often, banging pipes are simply loose and can vibrate when hit by the water hammer shockwave. Start with these steps:
- Inspect Exposed Pipes: Check for pipes that rattle or move when the machine runs.
- Add Pipe Clips or Brackets: Secure them firmly to studs or joists using cushioned pipe clips.
- Wrap with Foam Insulation: This dampens the sound and offers added stability.
Tip: Pay particular attention around the laundry area, as access is usually easiest here.
2. Install a Water Hammer Arrestor
A water hammer arrestor is the go-to fix for most washing machine water hammer issues. Here’s how it helps and how to install one:
What Is a Water Hammer Arrestor?
- It’s a device designed to absorb shock from the sudden stoppage of water.
- Arrestors contain air or gas-filled chambers that cushion the force, stopping the bang.
Steps to Install:
- Turn Off the Water Supply: Unplug and turn off your washing machine.
- Disconnect Hoses: Unscrew the hot and cold water hoses from the back of the washer.
- Attach Arrestors: Screw the arrestors onto the washer’s water inlets (most models are threaded for easy DIY installation).
- Reconnect Hoses: Tighten hoses onto the arrestors.
- Restore Water Supply: Plug everything back in and test the machine.
Benefits:
– Offers instant and lasting relief from water hammer.
– Requires minimal plumbing know-how for installation.
3. Check Your Home’s Water Pressure
High water pressure causes more forceful shocks when the washing machine valves close. Normal residential water pressure should range between 40-60 psi (pounds per square inch).
How to Check:
- Buy a simple water pressure gauge at your hardware store.
- Screw it onto a spigot or washing machine hookup and run the water.
Reducing Excessive Pressure:
If the reading is above 60 psi:
- Find Your Pressure Regulator: Usually near the main shutoff valve.
- Adjust the Regulator: Turn the screw slightly to decrease pressure.
- Call a Plumber: If you don’t have a pressure regulator, it’s wise to have one installed.
4. Clean and Maintain Washing Machine Valves
Sometimes, debris or mineral deposits make the valves close even more abruptly.
- Inspect the Valves: Shut off the water, then unscrew and check both the supply hoses and the inlet screens for blockages.
- Clean Thoroughly: Flush out any gunk or use a toothbrush to clear debris before reinstalling.
Maintenance Tip: Regular cleaning not only helps with water hammer but also prolongs your washing machine’s life.
5. “Air Chamber” Reset (Temporary Fix)
Older plumbing systems sometimes include built-in vertical pipes (air chambers) designed to absorb shocks. If these fill up with water over time, they lose effectiveness.
To reset:
- Turn Off Your Water Supply.
- Open All Faucets: Let the water drain out—air will replace water in the chambers.
- Close Faucets and Restore Water: Run the system and check for improvement.
Note: This fix is usually temporary, as air eventually dissolves back into the water.
6. Upgrade Washing Machine Hoses
Sturdy, reinforced hoses (preferably stainless steel braided) resist the impacts of water hammer better than weak or worn-out rubber hoses. If your hoses are old or bulging, consider replacing them as preventative maintenance.
7. Professional Solutions
If you’ve exhausted these home remedies and water hammer persists:
- Consult a Licensed Plumber: Persistent issues may signal complex problems, like incorrectly sized pipes or hidden plumbing faults.
- Pipe Upgrades: On rare occasions, older or undersized pipes may need replacing to stop water hammer for good.
Practical Tips and Best Practices
- Tighten Connections Regularly: Vibration can loosen fittings; check every few months.
- Use Quality Parts: When buying hoses or arrestors, opt for reputable brands and check compatibility with your machine.
- Monitor Water Usage: Don’t run high-demand appliances (dishwasher, shower) simultaneously with your washing machine if you have marginal plumbing.
- Stay on Top of Maintenance: Keep supply lines, valves, and filters clean to reduce system stress.
Benefits of Addressing Water Hammer
- Silence in Your Laundry Room: Enjoy peace and quiet during laundry cycles.
- Added Safety: Lower risk of burst pipes and subsequent water damage.
- Longer Appliance and Plumbing Lifespan: Prevent unnecessary repairs and replacements down the road.
- Improved Efficiency: Well-maintained machines often run better and use less energy.
Challenges You May Encounter
- Hard-to-Reach Pipes: Pipes inside walls are harder to secure or cushion.
- Older Plumbing: Vintage systems may lack modern features like pressure regulators or arrestors.
- Temporary Fixes: Some solutions (like air chamber resets) only last a short time.
- Time and Tools: DIY fixes are usually straightforward, but some scenarios require professional help for safety and efficacy.
Concluding Summary
Water hammer in washing machines is a common yet solvable issue. By understanding what causes it—and using a combination of securing pipes, installing water hammer arrestors, maintaining optimal water pressure, and regularly checking your plumbing system—you can eliminate clanging pipes for good. With proactive maintenance and the right upgrades, you’ll prevent future headaches and keep both your appliances and your home’s plumbing in top shape.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What causes water hammer in washing machines?
Water hammer typically occurs when washing machine solenoid valves shut off the flow of water very quickly. This sudden stoppage creates a shockwave in your pipes, producing a loud bang.
Are water hammer arrestors safe to install myself?
Yes! Most water hammer arrestors are designed for DIY installation. Just unscrew the hoses, attach the arrestor, and reconnect. Always follow the product’s instructions, and consult a professional if you’re unsure.
Will reducing water pressure stop water hammer completely?
Reducing excessive water pressure often helps, but it may not always eliminate water hammer entirely if the underlying cause is rapid valve closure or loose pipes. Combining pressure adjustment with other fixes usually works best.
How often should I check and maintain washing machine hoses?
Inspect your hoses every 6–12 months for bulges, cracks, or leaks. Replace hoses every 3–5 years, or sooner if you notice wear and tear.
Is water hammer dangerous to my home?
Repeated water hammer can damage pipes, loosen fittings, or even burst hoses, leading to costly water damage. Promptly addressing the problem protects both your appliances and your home.
With these clear steps and expert tips, you can say goodbye to noisy water hammer and enjoy a quieter, safer laundry room!