As a homeowner, there are certain sounds that are just expected from your plumbing system – the sound of water flowing through the pipes, the occasional hum of a water heater, or the sound of a toilet flushing. But have you ever heard a loud, banging noise coming from your pipes, especially when you turn on a hot water faucet, and wondered what it could be? The cause of this sound, commonly known as “water hammer”, could potentially be related to the installation of a tankless water heater and a check valve.
First, let’s talk about what a tankless water heater is. Unlike a traditional water heater that holds a certain amount of hot water in a tank, a tankless water heater heats water as it flows through the unit. This means that you can have hot water on demand, without waiting for a tank to fill up and heat the water. Tankless water heaters are becoming increasingly popular due to their energy efficiency, compact size, and the convenience they offer.
However, one downside to tankless water heaters is the potential for water hammer. Water hammer occurs when water is forced to change direction suddenly, causing a loud banging sound. This often happens when a valve is quickly closed, causing the water to slam against the pipes.
So how does a tankless water heater contribute to water hammer? Simply put, when you turn on a hot water faucet, it triggers the tankless water heater to start heating water. This heating process causes an increase in water pressure, which can cause a shockwave that leads to water hammer. This issue can be amplified if there is a check valve installed on the cold water supply line to prevent backflow into the water heater.
A check valve is a type of valve that only allows water to flow in one direction. It is commonly installed on the cold water supply line to prevent hot water from flowing back into the cold water line and potentially contaminating the water supply. However, if a check valve is installed on the cold water supply line and there is no other outlet for air in the system, the shockwave created by water hammer can cause the pipes to vibrate, which can lead to further issues down the line.
So, what can be done about water hammer caused by a tankless water heater and check valve? One solution is to install a “cold line spring check valve” on the outlet side of the tankless water heater. This type of valve is designed to reduce water hammer by controlling the rate at which the water flows through the system. This, in turn, reduces the likelihood of fluctuations in water pressure and the resulting noise.
It’s important to note that if you are experiencing water hammer, it’s always a good idea to contact a professional plumbing service to diagnose the issue and provide the best solution for your specific situation. They may recommend installing a cold line spring check valve or other measures, such as installing air chambers or water hammer arrestors, to alleviate the issue.
In summary, a tankless water heater, while efficient and convenient, can potentially cause water hammer due to the heating process and subsequent increase in water pressure. When combined with a check valve on the cold water supply line, this issue can be amplified, leading to loud banging sounds that can be heard throughout your home. The installation of a cold line spring check valve can be an effective solution to reduce water hammer and prevent further damage to your plumbing system. If you’re experiencing water hammer or other plumbing issues, contact a professional to ensure the best resolution for your specific situation. Remember to visit our website “aceplumbingrepair.com” or give our plumbing experts a call at this phone number “(844) 711-1590” for all your plumbing service needs.
Call Now