If you’ve ever been startled by a loud, jarring noise when your washing machine finishes its cycle, you’re not alone.
This phenomenon is known as the “water hammer,” which can be a source of annoyance and potential plumbing problems in your home. But do I need water hammer arrestor for washing machine?
Before you rush to decide, I will uncover everything about water hammer arrestors and whether investing in a water hammer arrestor is a wise choice for your laundry room.
So, if you’re tired of those unsettling clanks and thuds, stay tuned for the answers you need.
Do I Need Water Hammer Arrestor for Washing Machine?
Yes, you may need a water hammer arrestor for your washing machine.
A water hammer occurs when the water flow is suddenly stopped or redirected, causing a loud banging noise in your plumbing pipes. This can happen when the washing machine’s solenoid valves shut off quickly, creating a surge in water pressure.
Using a water hammer arrestor can help prevent this issue by absorbing sudden pressure spikes, reducing noise, and protecting your plumbing system from potential damage.
While not all washing machines require water hammer arrestors, they are particularly useful if you experience noticeable water hammering when your washing machine stops or changes water flow.
To determine if you need one, consider the severity of the water hammer noise and whether it causes any issues. If it’s disruptive or if you’ve noticed any damage to your pipes, it’s a good idea to install a water hammer arrestor, which is a relatively simple and inexpensive solution to this common plumbing problem.
Where Do You Put a Water Hammer Arrestor on a Washing Machine?
A water hammer arrestor installation on a washing machine is not a do-it-yourself project. Working with arrested water lines can be very dangerous, even if you are familiar with general plumbing.
You can go to Home Depot and spend about $15 on a water hammer arrestor, but unless you know how to properly install it, you could end up doing more harm than good.
Here are some quick tips if you’re set on attempting the project.
First, turn off the main water supply before beginning any work. Next, locate the problem area – usually where pipes knock together – and identify the vertical section of pipe that leads upward to your washer. Keep in mind that this is generally the cold water line.
Once the section is isolated, measure and cut it so the water hammer arrestor fits snugly. Now, it’s time to install the arrestor. There are two ways to do this – either by screwing it into place or soldering it in. If you’re uncomfortable with plumbing repairs, we recommend calling a professional.
Arresting water is a serious business; one wrong move could result in a costly mistake.
When Would You Use a Water Hammer Arrestor?
There are a few scenarios when you might want to use a water hammer arrestor. One common scenario is appliances requiring a lot of water pressure, like a washing machine or dishwasher.
If your home doesn’t have enough water pressure to supply these appliances, then the sudden influx of water can cause a “water hammer,” a loud banging noise. By installing a water hammer arrestor, you can help to mitigate this problem.
Another common scenario is when you have multiple floors in your home, and the upper floors are getting inadequate water pressure.
Several things can cause this problem, but one potential solution is installing a water hammer arrestor on each floor.
Related: Can You Use A Studor Vent On A Washing Machine?
Benefits of Using a Water Hammer Arrestor
Water hammer arrestors are small devices with significant advantages when it comes to maintaining a healthy plumbing system, especially in the context of a washing machine.
Here, we’ll delve into the benefits of using a water hammer arrestor in more detail:
Noise reduction
One of the most noticeable benefits of installing a water hammer arrestor is the significant reduction in noise.
A water hammer can produce loud, jarring banging sounds when water flow suddenly stops or changes direction. This noise can be disruptive, especially in quiet environments or during nighttime laundry cycles.
A water hammer arrestor absorbs the shockwaves caused by the water hammer, effectively silencing these disruptive noises.
Plumbing protection
Water hammer isn’t just an auditory nuisance; it can also be damaging to your plumbing system over time. Repeated pressure surges can lead to wear and tear on pipes, joints, and fixtures.
By installing a water hammer arrestor, you safeguard your plumbing system from this potential damage. It acts as a buffer, absorbing the force of the pressure spikes and preventing them from wreaking havoc on your pipes.
Extended appliance lifespan
Washing machines are a significant investment, and the repeated shocks from water hammers can take a toll on their internal components.
Water hammer arrestors help protect your washing machine by ensuring that it operates smoothly without the added stress of sudden pressure changes. This, in turn, can extend the lifespan of your appliance, saving you money on repairs or replacements.
Consistent water pressure
Water hammer can lead to fluctuations in water pressure throughout your plumbing system. These pressure swings can affect other appliances and fixtures in your home, including faucets and showerheads.
With a water hammer arrestor in place, you can maintain a more consistent and steady water pressure, improving the overall efficiency and comfort of your household.
Peace of mind
Knowing that you have a water hammer arrestor installed provides peace of mind. You can run your washing machine and use water fixtures without worrying about disruptive noise or potential plumbing damage.
It’s a relatively simple and cost-effective solution that offers long-term benefits and convenience.
Cost Considerations
Water hammer arrestors are a cost-effective solution that can save you money in the long run. While they may require an initial investment, their affordability becomes evident compared to the potential expenses associated with plumbing repairs.
A water hammer can inflict significant damage on your plumbing system over time. This may include burst pipes, damaged joints, or even the need to replace appliances like washing machines due to excessive stress. Plumbing repairs can be expensive, quickly adding up when addressing these issues.
In contrast, water hammer arrestors are relatively inexpensive. They are a one-time purchase and installation cost, typically $10 to $30 per unit, depending on the type and brand. This initial investment is minimal, considering the potential costs of plumbing repairs or appliance replacements.
Moreover, water hammer arrestors provide long-term savings by preventing damage and extending the lifespan of your plumbing components and appliances.
By absorbing the pressure spikes that would otherwise harm your system, they help you avoid emergency plumbing repairs and appliance replacements, saving you both money and the inconvenience of unexpected breakdowns.
The low upfront cost of water hammer arrestors is a wise investment compared to the potential expenses of plumbing repairs and replacements.
They offer long-term savings and peace of mind, making them a cost-effective choice for homeowners looking to protect their plumbing systems and appliances.
Conclusion
Do I need water hammer arrestor for washing machine? The need for a water hammer arrestor for your washing machine depends on the severity of the water hammer issues you experience.
If your plumbing system produces disruptive noise or if you’re concerned about potential damage to pipes and appliances due to pressure surges, installing a water hammer arrestor is a prudent choice.
While it involves a modest upfront cost, it offers valuable benefits like noise reduction, plumbing protection, and long-term savings by preventing costly repairs.
Ultimately, it ensures a quieter, more reliable laundry experience while safeguarding your plumbing investment, making it a sensible addition for many homeowners.
