This unpleasant and frightening phenomenon has a strictly technical name and is called water hammer (also known as water hammer). In this comprehensive guide, we will take a detailed look at exactly what this problem is, why it is so common in resort complexes, and what are the most effective steps to permanently eliminate it.
What exactly is the phenomenon of “water hammer”?
Water hammer is a physical phenomenon in a plumbing system that occurs when there is a sudden change in the speed of moving water. We need to understand that water has significant mass and when it moves quickly under pressure through pipes, it gains enormous momentum.
If this rapid flow is stopped abruptly – for example, by quickly closing a modern single-lever mixer tap or by automatically closing the solenoid valve on a washing machine or dishwasher – the water literally has nowhere to go. It hits the closed barrier with enormous force. This creates a powerful shock wave (water hammer) that travels back along the pipe path. It is this wave that causes the pipes to vibrate violently, hitting the walls of your apartment or bumping into each other, generating that frightening noise.
Why is pipe noise common in apartments in Bansko?
Many property owners in Bansko are faced with this problem due to the specifics of the local infrastructure and the way the homes are used. Here are the main reasons why water hammer is a common occurrence here:
- Seasonal pressure fluctuations: During the busy winter season, water consumption in large aparthotels fluctuates dramatically. To provide water to the upper floors, the water pressure systems often maintain higher than standard pressure. High pressure is the number one cause of water hammer.
- Specifics of modern appliances: Almost all vacation apartments are equipped with modern appliances with quick-acting valves that stop the water flow in a split second.
- Dry construction and poor insulation: In many complexes, the interior partition walls are made of plasterboard. Often, pipes are run through them without sufficient insulation (e.g. microporous rubber) or without stable fasteners, which turns the wall into a huge resonating box.
- Long periods of non-use: When the apartment is empty outside the season, the air in the air chambers of the water pipe (which should absorb shocks) is gradually absorbed by the water and they lose their protective function.
Why you shouldn't ignore water hammer?
The noise itself is extremely annoying, especially when you are trying to get some rest, but the real problem is invisible to the eyes. The systematic repetition of water hammer causes serious damage to the installation.
4 steps to dealing with water hammer in your property
The good news for all homeowners is that the problem of noisy pipes is completely solvable. Depending on the specific cause, you can apply the following steps:
1. Draining the plumbing system (The fastest method)
Many installations have factory-installed air chambers (vertical blind tubes) that act as shock absorbers. If they have filled with water, you need to refill them with air. Here's how to do it yourself:
- Turn off the main water supply to the apartment (from the stopcock to the water meter).
- Open the highest faucet in the home (for example, the shower faucet).
- Open the lowest tap to drain all available water in the system.
- Once the water has completely stopped, close the lower tap, turn on the main water supply and wait for the water to flow normally from the upper tap. Close that too. The air chambers should now be functional again.
2. Installation of water hammer dampers (Compensators)
If draining does not help permanently, the best professional solution is to install specialized water hammer compensators. These are small plumbing components containing a piston and a sealed air (or gas) chamber. They are installed as close as possible to the source of the problem (most often behind the washing machine or under the sink) and absorb all the kinetic energy of the water.
3. Water pressure adjustment
As we mentioned, in some buildings in Bansko the pressure is too high. If it exceeds 3.5 – 4 bar, the probability of water hammer is huge. The solution is to install a pressure reducing valve (pressure regulator) immediately after the main water meter of the apartment. It will maintain a constant and safe pressure, which will not only eliminate noise, but also extend the life of the entire equipment in the bathroom and kitchen.
4. Reinforcement and soundproofing of exposed pipes
If you hear the vibrations mainly in the inspection holes or behind cabinets, check that the pipes are well secured. Using quality metal clamps with rubber seals will prevent the pipes from banging against the walls. Wrapping them with microporous rubber pipe insulation will further muffle any residual noise.
Are you looking for a reliable specialist in Bansko?
Dealing with water hammer is an investment in the peace and security of your vacation home. If the above do-it-yourself methods do not help or you do not have the necessary tools to install a pressure reducing valve, the wisest decision is to trust a professional. Local plumbing experts are perfectly familiar with the specifics of the plumbing installations in the complexes in the region and can quickly diagnose and fix the problem.
English (UK)