Simple DIY Solutions To Stop Pipes From Knocking When Water's Off

If you've ever been jolted awake by the loud banging of water pipes when no water is even running, you're not alone. This irritating phenomenon, known as water hammer, can disrupt sleep and cause headaches for homeowners. But before you call the plumber, try some of these simple DIY solutions to silence those noisy pipes for good.

What Causes Knocking Pipes When The Water Is Off?

To stop those annoying pipe knocks, it helps to understand what causes them in the first place. Here are some of the most common culprits:

Water Hammer Explained

Water hammer refers to the loud, abrupt banging noises that occur when a valve or faucet shuts off suddenly. This sudden stoppage causes a pressure spike or surge as the water momentum is instantly halted. The shock waves from this pressure spike cause pipes to rattle loudly.

Quickly closing valves cause water hammer more frequently, as they shut off the water flow too rapidly for the pipes to adjust.

Trapped Air In The Pipes

Those air chambers behind your walls are actually there for a reason - they provide a cushion of air that helps absorb water hammer pressure. But over time, they can rupture or lose effectiveness, allowing pipes to vibrate and knock together.

Loose Or Unsecured Pipes

When pipes aren't properly secured, they can rattle against studs and framing as water flows through them. This leads to vibrating pipes that make knocking noises over time.

High Water Pressure

Excessive water pressure entering your home's plumbing system puts added strain on pipes. This high pressure causes strain that can manifest as loud knocking or banging noises.

Quick DIY Fixes For Knocking Pipes

Before calling in the pros, try these simple DIY solutions to stop knocking pipes in their tracks:

Add Water Hammer Arrestors

Installing water hammer arrestors onto problem lines provides chambers to absorb the pressure spike, preventing banging noises. They're easy to install near washing machines, toilets, and other lines prone to water hammer.

Secure Loose Pipes

Check for loose pipe brackets or sections that aren't properly secured. Refastening these areas to studs can help reduce vibrations that cause knocking.

Adjust The Water Pressure

Use a water pressure gauge to test your home's pressure. If it's above 60 PSI, adjust your regulator down until the pressure normalizes. This takes strain off pipes.

Drain Sediment From Water Heater

Flushing your water heater occasionally removes mineral deposits and sediment buildup. This prevents loud popping or banging noises from trapped steam.

Add Air Chambers

Plumbing additional air chambers onto problem lines gives the water flow a cushion of air to compress against, absorbing pressure spikes.

When Should You Call A Plumber?

While many knocking pipe issues can be addressed with DIY solutions, call a professional plumber if:

• You can't find or access the source of leaks or loose pipes
• Water pressure issues persist after regulator adjustments
• There is significant sediment buildup or signs of corrosion
• You think the main water line or shutoff valve is the problem
• The pipes are very old or corroded throughout

Preventing Knocking Pipes In The First Place

Along with fixing existing issues, try these tips to avoid future knocking pipe problems:

Maintain Consistent Water Pressure

Keep household water pressure between 50-60 PSI. Periodically check your regulator and adjust as needed to maintain this optimal pressure.

Update Old Pipes Over Time

Have a plumber inspect for corroded or damaged pipes that need replacement. Newer piping is less prone to water hammer issues.

Insulate Pipes

Adding insulation around pipes dampens vibrations, preventing knocking noises. This is an easy DIY solution.

Regularly Drain Water Heater

Drain a quart of water from the tank every 3 months to prevent sediment buildup. This extends the life of your unit.

Loud banging pipes can disrupt your home's peace and quiet. In most cases, this annoying issue is caused by sudden water pressure spikes known as water hammer. Trapped air, loose pipes, and high water pressure can also lead to knocking pipes when water isn't even running.

Before calling a plumber, try DIY solutions like arrestors, securing pipes, or adjusting your home's water pressure. But for extensive sediment buildup, corrosion, or main line issues, rely on a licensed pro. With some diligent troubleshooting and preventative maintenance, you can restore the tranquility in your home.