Water Hammer Arrestor for Water Heater: Your Essential Guide to a Quiet and Efficient System
What To Know
- However, if you have a particularly large water heater or a plumbing system that is prone to water hammer, you may want to consider a spring-loaded arrestor.
- If you are installing the water hammer arrestor on a threaded pipe, you can apply a small amount of plumber’s putty to the threads of the arrestor.
- Installing a water hammer arrestor on your water heater is a simple and effective way to prevent damage and extend the life of your plumbing system.
Water hammer is a common plumbing problem that can cause loud banging noises and damage to your pipes and appliances. It occurs when water flowing through your pipes is suddenly stopped, creating a shockwave that travels through the system. A water hammer arrestor is a device that helps to absorb this shockwave and prevent damage.
Installing a water hammer arrestor on your water heater is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few steps. By following the instructions below, you can help to protect your plumbing system and prevent costly repairs.
Materials You’ll Need
- Water hammer arrestor
- Adjustable wrench
- Teflon tape
- Plumber’s putty (optional)
Step 1: Choose the Right Water Hammer Arrestor
The first step is to choose the right water hammer arrestor for your water heater. There are two main types of water hammer arrestors:
- Compression arrestors: These arrestors use a rubber diaphragm to absorb the shockwave. They are the most common type of arrestor and are available in a variety of sizes.
- Spring-loaded arrestors: These arrestors use a spring to absorb the shockwave. They are more expensive than compression arrestors, but they are also more durable.
For most residential water heaters, a compression arrestor is sufficient. However, if you have a particularly large water heater or a plumbing system that is prone to water hammer, you may want to consider a spring-loaded arrestor.
Step 2: Determine the Location for the Arrestor
The water hammer arrestor should be installed on the cold water supply line to the water heater. The best location is usually just below the water heater’s inlet valve.
Step 3: Shut Off the Water Supply
Before you begin working on your plumbing, it is important to shut off the water supply to the water heater. You can do this by turning off the main water valve or by closing the isolation valve on the cold water supply line to the water heater.
Step 4: Remove the Old Arrestor (if applicable)
If there is an old water hammer arrestor installed, you will need to remove it before you can install the new one. To do this, simply unscrew the arrestor from the water supply line.
Step 5: Apply Plumber’s Putty (optional)
If you are installing the water hammer arrestor on a threaded pipe, you can apply a small amount of plumber’s putty to the threads of the arrestor. This will help to create a watertight seal.
Step 6: Install the New Arrestor
Screw the new water hammer arrestor onto the cold water supply line. Be sure to tighten the arrestor securely, but do not overtighten it.
Step 7: Turn on the Water Supply
Once the water hammer arrestor is installed, turn on the water supply to the water heater. Check for leaks and tighten the arrestor as necessary.
Troubleshooting
If you are having trouble installing your water hammer arrestor, here are a few troubleshooting tips:
- Make sure that the arrestor is the correct size for your water heater.
- Make sure that the arrestor is installed in the correct location.
- Make sure that the arrestor is tightened securely.
- If you are still having problems, you may need to call a plumber.
The Bottom Line: Enjoy a Quieter, More Durable Plumbing System
Installing a water hammer arrestor on your water heater is a simple and effective way to prevent damage and extend the life of your plumbing system. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily install a water hammer arrestor and enjoy a quieter, more durable plumbing system.
What You Need to Learn
Q: What is the purpose of a water hammer arrestor?
A: A water hammer arrestor is a device that helps to absorb the shockwave created when water flowing through your pipes is suddenly stopped. This can help to prevent damage to your pipes and appliances.
Q: What are the different types of water hammer arrestors?
A: There are two main types of water hammer arrestors: compression arrestors and spring-loaded arrestors. Compression arrestors are the most common type and are available in a variety of sizes. Spring-loaded arrestors are more expensive, but they are also more durable.
Q: How do I choose the right water hammer arrestor for my water heater?
A: For most residential water heaters, a compression arrestor is sufficient. However, if you have a particularly large water heater or a plumbing system that is prone to water hammer, you may want to consider a spring-loaded arrestor.
Q: Where should I install the water hammer arrestor?
A: The water hammer arrestor should be installed on the cold water supply line to the water heater. The best location is usually just below the water heater’s inlet valve.
Q: How do I install a water hammer arrestor?
A: To install a water hammer arrestor, simply screw it onto the cold water supply line. Be sure to tighten the arrestor securely, but do not overtighten it.
Q: What should I do if I am having trouble installing my water hammer arrestor?
A: If you are having trouble installing your water hammer arrestor, you may need to call a plumber.
