What areas do you service?

We operate throughout the Southern Highlands and Southwestern Sydney, including Bowral, Mittagong, Moss Vale, Alpine, Aylmerton, and Bargo.

Are you available after hours?

Yes. We provide 24/7 emergency plumbing services, so you'll never be left waiting during urgent situations.

What plumbing services do you offer?

Our team handles a wide range of plumbing needs including general repairs, blocked drains, sinks, and toilets, sewer and stormwater repairs, hot water system installations and repairs (gas and electric), leak detection and repairs, gas and LPG fitting, backflow and TMV testing and accreditation, water jet blasting, and camera inspections.

Do you help with blocked drains?

Yes. We use specialised equipment such as water jet blasting, electric eel machines, and pipe cameras to clear blockages and diagnose issues quickly.

Can you service hot water systems?

Absolutely. We repair, replace, and install gas and electric hot water systems to ensure your home or business always has reliable hot water.

Do you work with businesses and property managers?

Yes. We provide plumbing services for residential, commercial, real estate, and strata properties, with flexible scheduling to minimise disruption.

Are you licensed to carry out gas fitting and compliance testing?

Yes. Our plumbers are fully qualified to handle gas and LPG fitting, leak detection, backflow testing, and TMV (thermostatic mixing valve) testing with proper accreditation.

How do I book a plumber?

You can call us at 0432 374 689 anytime for emergencies, or contact us to arrange a convenient appointment for general plumbing work.

What are the common plumbing issues in the Southern Highlands?

Homes in the Southern Highlands often deal with tree root blockages in pipes, low water pressure due to older plumbing systems, and issues related to seasonal climate changes such as pipes bursting in colder weather. Our team is experienced in dealing with these specific issues.

How does the climate in the Southern Highlands affect plumbing?

In colder months, we often see an increase in pipe bursts due to freezing temperatures. If you notice issues with your water pressure or leaks during the winter, it could be a sign that your pipes are freezing. We recommend pipe insulation to prevent these issues and offer winter-specific check-ups.

What is the typical response time for an emergency in the Southern Highlands?

We aim to arrive as quickly as possible — usually within an hour for emergencies. Since we're local to the Southern Highlands, we can respond faster than out-of-area plumbers.

Do you offer preventative plumbing services?

Yes! We always recommend regular plumbing maintenance to catch small issues before they turn into big (and expensive) problems. Our preventative services include drain cleaning, water heater checks, pipe inspections, and more.

How can I prevent tree roots from blocking my pipes?

Tree root intrusion is a common issue in the Southern Highlands, especially with the area's beautiful, mature trees. We recommend regular drain inspections using CCTV drain cameras to spot issues early and the use of root barriers or chemical root treatments to prevent future blockages.

TPP - 5 Effective Ways to Stop Water Hammer

March 22, 2025

By : Team Penguin Plumbing
0 Comments

TPP – 5 Effective Ways to Stop Water Hammer

Water hammer is a common plumbing issue that causes loud banging noises in pipes when a tap or valve is suddenly shut off. It can be startling and, if left unaddressed, may lead to pipe damage over time. If you’ve ever wondered, “why do I suddenly have water hammer?” or “can a plumber fix water hammer?”, you’re not alone. In this guide, we’ll outline five effective ways to stop water hammer and restore peace and order to your home’s plumbing system.

1. Best Immediate Fix: Install Water Hammer Arrestors

Water hammer arrestors are specialised devices designed to absorb the shockwave created when water flow is suddenly halted. They contain an air or gas-filled chamber that cushions the force, preventing noisy water pipes from rattling.

Installation – Water hammer arrestors can be installed at key points, such as near washing machines, dishwashers, or other appliances with quick-closing valves.
When to seek professional help – If you’re unsure how to install an arrestor or which product specification is suitable for a particular application, a licensed plumber can ensure proper placement and functionality.

2. Check and Secure Loose Pipes

Sometimes, the problem isn’t with water pressure but with poorly secured pipes that vibrate excessively when water flow stops.

How to fix it – Inspect your home’s plumbing and use pipe clamps or brackets to secure any loose pipes to walls or framing.
Additional tip – Adding foam padding around pipes can further reduce movement and noise.

3. Reduce Water Pressure

High water pressure is a leading contributor to water hammer. If your home’s water pressure is too high, it can exacerbate pipe noise and damage fittings.

Solution – Install a pressure-reducing valve (PRV) on your main water line to keep pressure at a safe level (typically around 40-60 psi).
How to measure water pressure – Use a pressure gauge, available at hardware stores, to test your home’s water pressure.
Do you need a plumber? – If adjusting the pressure doesn’t help, a plumber can inspect your system for underlying issues.

4. Drain and Refill Your Plumbing System

Over time, air chambers in your pipes that help absorb shockwaves can become waterlogged, leading to water hammer. Draining and refilling the system can restore its function.

Steps to reset air chambers:

Turn off your home’s main water supply.
Open all taps and flush toilets to drain the remaining water.
Turn the water supply back on slowly to refill the system.
Check if the noisy water pipes persist.

5. Upgrade Old or Faulty Valves

If you’re experiencing persistent water hammer, outdated or faulty valves could be to blame.

Quick-closing valves – Washing machines and dishwashers often have solenoid valves that shut rapidly, contributing to water hammer.
Best fix – Consider replacing old valves with slow-closing alternatives that regulate water flow more gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes water hammer?

Water hammer occurs when a sudden stop in water flow creates a pressure surge, resulting in loud pipe noises. High water pressure, unsecured pipes, or faulty valves can contribute to the problem.

Do I need a plumber for water hammer?

It depends on the severity of the issue. Simple fixes like securing pipes or draining the system can be DIY solutions. However, if water hammer persists, a licensed plumber can diagnose and resolve the issue effectively.

Can a plumber fix water hammer?

Yes. A plumber can install water hammer arrestors, adjust pressure levels, replace faulty valves, or recommend long-term solutions based on your home’s plumbing setup.

Is water hammer dangerous?

While water hammer itself is not immediately dangerous, prolonged pressure surges can weaken pipes, causing leaks, joint damage, or even pipe bursts over time. Addressing it early can help prevent costly repairs.

How can I tell if my water pressure is too high?

You can measure your home’s water pressure using a pressure gauge, which attaches to an outdoor tap. Ideal water pressure ranges between 40-60 psi. If it’s higher, consider installing a pressure-reducing valve to protect your plumbing system.

Are there standards for water hammer arrestors?

In Australia, water hammer arrestors are typically designed and manufactured to comply with international standards, such as the Plumbing and Drainage Institute’s (PDI) Standard WH 201. This standard establishes six categories (A through F) for water hammer arrestors, each specifying size and capacity requirements necessary to control shock in piping systems.

Can water hammer damage my appliances?

Yes, repeated pressure surges from water hammer can strain appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, and water heaters. Over time, this can lead to internal damage, leaks, or reduced efficiency.

Does pipe material affect water hammer?

Yes. Metal pipes, such as copper, tend to transmit shock waves more than plastic (PVC or PEX) pipes, making them more prone to water hammer. Upgrading to modern materials or securing existing pipes can help reduce noise and vibrations.

Let Team Penguin Put a Stop to Your Noisy Water Pipes – Quickly & Effectively!

If you’re dealing with persistent water hammer, it’s important to act quickly to prevent long-term damage. Simple solutions like installing arrestors, securing pipes, and reducing water pressure can make a big difference. However, if DIY efforts don’t resolve the problem, consulting a professional is the best way to fix water hammer for good.

Water hammer is more than just an annoying noise – it can lead to serious plumbing issues if left untreated. While DIY fixes like installing arrestors, securing pipes, and reducing water pressure can help, persistent water hammer may indicate a deeper problem within your plumbing system.

If you’re still experiencing loud banging pipes despite trying these solutions, it’s time to bring in the professionals. Our expert plumbing team can assess the issue, recommend the best long-term fix, and ensure your system runs smoothly and quietly.

Don’t let water hammer put your pipes at risk! Contact us today at 0432 374 689 or visit our website to book an inspection.