Home / What is Water Hammer and How to Prevent It?

What is Water Hammer and How to Prevent It?

March 26, 2025

Garon T Plumbing, Heating & AC
Garon T Plumbing, Heating & AC
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Trip Tre
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Technician was very polite and knowledgeable in her craft! I have nothing, but upcoming satisfaction with work to be performed at my residence! Thank You Sofia…..
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Scott Van Hart
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Sofia serviced our hot water heater and she did an excellent job. She took the time to share with me pictures of the various filters. It definitely needed service
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Liz McTighe
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Ken has been my technician a couple of times now. He’s always on time, friendly, and extremely knowledgeable. He always fixes the problem and gives us proper estimates and options for moving forward.
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Bob Segrell
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Sofia came and replaced my water heater. I am very pleased with her work.
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Brian Laline
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Had connected with Garon T through Angie’s in spring. Did good Job then. This time, needed an outdoor line blown out and some plumbing inside fixed. Ken was plumber this time. A very personable guy, and a terrific plumber. We had a few plumbers over the years who checked a problem but could not figure out how to fix a faulty faucet on a tub. Ken figured it out in literally 15 seconds, he ordered the parts while still at our house and we were able to make an appointment to get it fixed. He also explained Garon Ts annual service agreement, which is a great deal. we took it. Ken returned with the parts, fixed the tub faucet and then addressed a problem with boiler that Keith shutting down. He identified the problem but as we discussed the age if both the boiler and water heater I saw it would be wider to replace the system. Again, Ken expedited the details and worked up an estimate. Really the best plumber we’ve had in our homes.
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Victoria Soman
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Nick was professional and informative and honest. I would highly recommend!
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A Peloso
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Jordan did a complete inspection of our heating system. Furnace, duct work and gas line. Explained everything to me very clearly. He did a great job
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Cynthia Lanno
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This time Garon T sent out Ken to help with removing a kitchen sink and installing a new one. He was great. I’m think Garon T is the company to call. Prompt, professional and polite.
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Barbara Van de Zilver
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Nick came to my rescue! He found the tiny tiny hole that was causing water on my basement floor. He also changed my whole house water filter as even with the plastic wrench supplied I could not budge it . As with all the Garon T team he was courteous, efficient and talented. Highly recommend this company and all their employees

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That alarming banging noise in your pipes isn’t just annoying—it signals a plumbing issue called water hammer that requires attention. At Garon T Plumbing, Heating, AC & Electric, a trusted plumber in Brick Township, NJ, we often help homeowners address this common but concerning plumbing problem before it leads to serious damage.

Understanding Water Hammer

Water hammer occurs when flowing water suddenly stops or changes direction, creating a shock wave that reverberates through your plumbing system. This hydraulic shock happens most commonly when you quickly close a faucet or when washing machine valves shut abruptly. The resulting pressure can exceed 150 PSI—enough force to damage pipes, loosen fittings, and eventually cause leaks that require emergency plumbing assistance.

Signs You’re Experiencing Water Hammer

Beyond the characteristic banging sound, watch for these indicators that you need plumbing repair:

  • Vibrating pipes
  • Rattling inside walls after water use
  • Leaking or dripping fixtures
  • Reduced water pressure
  • Water spitting from faucets

DIY Solutions for Minor Cases

For mild water hammer issues, try these approaches before calling a plumbing company:

  • Drain and Refill Your Plumbing System
  • Turn off your main water supply
  • Open all faucets to drain the system
  • Turn water back on and close faucets
  • This restores air chambers that may have become waterlogged

Check Water Pressure

High water pressure often contributes to water hammer. If your home’s water pressure exceeds 80 PSI, consider installing a pressure regulator.

When to Call for Professional Plumbing Repair

Contact an emergency plumber immediately if:

  • DIY solutions don’t resolve the issue
  • You notice leaking pipes or joints
  • The noise intensifies or becomes more frequent
  • You have older plumbing without modern water hammer arrestors

Prevention Through Proper Plumbing Installation

The most effective long-term solution involves installing water hammer arrestors—devices that absorb hydraulic shock. During any plumbing installation, these protective components should be incorporated near quick-closing valves and appliances.

Protect Your Plumbing System

Don’t ignore water hammer. This warning sign can lead to expensive repairs if left unaddressed. Contact Garon T Plumbing, Heating, AC & Electric today for a comprehensive evaluation of your plumbing system and expert solutions to prevent water hammer damage.

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