Most likely cause A water hammer occurs when a water valve is suddenly shut off. All the water that was running then crashes into the valve, shaking your pipes, creating the knocking noise you hear. A visual showing how water hammer can create knocking pipes.

Why do I hear a knocking sound when I turn on hot water?

So, if you hear the banging/knocking noises only when you run hot water, it may be piping that’s expanding and contracting as hot water runs through it. And as those pipes swell, they can rub and bump against surrounding metal, causing the banging/knocking noises you hear.

How do you fix a knocking hot water pipe?

If the banging sound is coming from a water supply pipe, make sure that all valves and faucets are fully open. If this doesn’t solve the problem, try turning up the water pressure in your house by adjusting the main valve to your property.

Why does my shower make a knocking sound?

A: The knocking sounds are what’s known as water hammer, caused when water flowing in pipes suddenly shuts off and vibrates with enough force to cause the pipes to knock against wood framing.

Why does my shower make a loud noise when I turn it on?

Your shower contains a valve that you adjust with the faucet handle(s). The valve controls how much hot and cold water mix together and allows you to achieve a temperature that’s pleasingly hot without being scalding. This valve can wear out over time and result in whistling.

Why does my pipes make noise when I turn on the water?

That you hear the noise when you turn the faucet on quickly, indicates that the sudden movement of water causes pipes that are not properly secured to hit against the framing. Lowering the water pressure, which should generally not be above 60 psi, often can reduce the hammer sound.

How do you fix water hammer in shower?

Tips for Stopping Water Hammers

  1. Drain your pipes and refill them to create new air chambers. One method for eliminating water hammers is to create new air chambers that will serve as cushions for shockwaves. …
  2. Tighten mounting straps. …
  3. Install a water hammer arrestor.


What causes water hammer in hot water pipes?

Water hammer is a loud bang coming from the pipes after a fill valve shuts off. This type of plumbing noise is typically due to worn or damaged faucet washers. A buildup of minerals and rust inside the shut-off valves may also cause this sound.

Can water hammer burst pipes?

The Water Hammer Problem



The effect of the shockwaves can damage the pipes and knock them loose, and also damage taps, faucets, and appliances. Enough force from water hammer can even cause pipes to burst. If you hear rattling sounds along with the water hammer, it likely means you have pipes coming loose.