For those with limited plumbing knowledge, the necessity of a Hammer Arrestor for a Shower Valve can be confusing. Understanding this crucial component is essential to avoid potential pipe problems.

Delve into this article to unravel the mysteries surrounding the Shower Valve and its need for a Hammer Arrestor.

Here’s the Reason why Shower Valve Needs Hammer Arrestor:

The shower valve plays a vital role when you are taking both with pressure. But the valve of a shower turns off the water as quickly as a human hand. It sometimes causes a water hammer.

In such circumstances, installing a hammer arrestor is important; otherwise, you could face a serious plumbing problem.

What is Shower Valve?

The shower valve is an important part of your shower routine. Because of the shower valve, you can have a relaxing shower experience. The shower valve allows you to control the water pressure and temperature.

The shower valve is the inner device that regulates the water flow, temperature, and output according to your preferences in Tub Spout and other accessories.

Showering will be a more pleasurable experience with an active shower valve and a shower head.

Why Shower Valve Need Hammer Arrestor?

When you have water hammers in your shower, you’ll need to install a water hammer arrestor. The water hammering in your shower now has a rational explanation. You will feel an overflow of water if the valve tightens quickly.

Due to the high concentration of water, this results in water hammers. It occurs due to the high velocity of running water. As a result, a shower hammer arrestor is required to reduce the velocity of high running water and water hammer.

What Causes Water Hammering in Shower?

The term “Water Hammer” refers to a common plumbing issue. This issue has the potential to cause serious damage to your plumbing system. It’s a quick startle with an obnoxious sound.

Water hammering in the shower occurs when the water is turned off quickly. Shower water hammering is frequently caused by the shower faucet. The shower faucet shuts off the water in 30 milliseconds which is faster than hands.

Water hammer occurs in other appliances as well that use solenoid valves, such as clothes washers and dishwashers.

Where Water Hammer Arrestors should be Installed?

The location where the quick-closing valve is used is where the water hammer arrestor should be installed. The manufacturer’s instructions must be followed when installing the water hammer.

For best results, stick to the specifications and keep the installations in line with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

The installation is simple, and you won’t need a plumber for the entire process.

Read Also (PDF): Hammer arrestor installation instructions

How Many Water Hammer Arrestors Do I Need?

When the branch line length exceeds 20 feet, the installation becomes necessary. Water hammer installation at the proper location is also dependent on the experience of the industry that created it.

The single and multiple fixture branch lines should be kept in mind during the selection process.

It depends on how many issues you have with your water lines. If you have multiple distinct water lines and narrow pipes for increasing water velocity. Then the more problems you have, the more arrestors you’ll need to install.

However, the installation should be close to the source of the problem. and locate the other fixture that is causing a problem.

Are Water Hammer Arrestors Required By Code?

Experts and reliable sources both recommend the use of water hammer arrestors, which are required by the code. While some may hold opposing views, it is important to follow universal guidelines for installing water hammer arrestors with all quick-closing valves. Adhering to these guidelines ensures proper installation and optimal performance.

When the shower valve doesn’t necessitate it, people commonly install these arrestors in other appliances like the washing machine valve. Make sure to follow the provided instructions carefully to connect them properly and achieve the best possible results.

When Would You Use a Water Hammer Arrestor?

You should install the water hammer arrestors when the valve tightens quickly and you feel an overload of water.

People keep the pipes narrow to increase the velocity of the water flowing through them. Water hammers occur when the valve tightens too quickly as a result of the high-water concentration.

If you’re facing the aforementioned problem, installing a water hammer arrestor is a straightforward solution. This simple device should be installed in the water line to effectively resolve the issue. Installing a water arrestor in each line will effectively address and solve the problem at hand.

Do I Need Water Hammer Arrestor on Hot and Cold?

Water hammer arrestors are usually installed where the valve for water stops or open.

Water Hammer Arrestor can be installed on both hot and cold-water pipe systems. You will require it because, at times, taking a relaxing shower will be impossible if you do not have hammer arrestors installed on your hot and cold-water systems.

This could aid you in minimizing problems with your piping system that you may confront in the coming days.

Do all Shower Valves Have Shutoffs?

In today’s market, every available shower has valve shutoffs, but they all serve different purposes. There are three different types of shower valve shutoffs, each with its own function.

It is up to you to choose between a pressure-balancing shower valve, a thermostatic shower valve, and a diverter shower valve.

In addition, the market offers a wide range of shower valves. To make the right choice, carefully consider your needs and preferences, and consult the manufacturer’s instructions to determine the intended purpose of each type.

How Do I Stop Water Hammer in My Shower?

Method 1:

You can stop water hammers in your shower using various methods. If the issue isn’t severe, a plumber may not be necessary. However, if you frequently experience water hammers, it’s crucial to address the problem promptly to avoid potential complications.

Shut off the water at the main water valve in your home, then open the highest faucet in your home. Now open the lowest faucet in your home to allow all water to drain from the pipes.

Opening the main valve creates new air chambers that help prevent water hammers in your shower.

Method 2:

To stop your shower from hammering, go to the highest faucet, which should be on the third or second floor. Open all of your shower’s cold water faucets.

Do this for all floors, from the third to the second, all the way down to the basement and ground floor.

You’ll have to wait 25 to 30 minutes after all the water has come out of the pipes.

If the above procedure appears to be too time-consuming, the best option is to simply install water hammer arrestors in your shower to eliminate water hammers.

To watch this complete process, check out this great video from House Doctor Ray!

Can a Bad Shower Valve Cause Water Hammer?

A shower valve is used to control water flow, and it will cause a water hammer if it suddenly shuts off. And the bad news is that you’ll eventually have to deal with a water hammer.

Simply go to the store and purchase a reliable valve. Getting the right one will help you avoid the same issue in the future.

The use of the proper valve will ensure that everything runs smoothly and you will get the best results possible. However, the pressure of water in pipes plays a role.

If you’re having the same issue with a high-quality valve, it’s time to call your plumber to lower your water pressure.

Is It Possible To Install Water Hammer Arrestors Upside Down?

For installing the water hammer arrestors upside down, compression fittings are needed to be done. In conclusion, yes, water hammer arrestors can be installed upside down.

But for other appliances and showers, you must install water hammer arrestors near the noise-making fixture.

Do I Need a Water Hammer Arrestor for Dishwasher?

The faucets and valves in your dishwasher and washing machine will close quickly. The dishwasher’s valves and faucets are automatic, and the fast closing can cause noise.

As a result, you’ll need to install a water hammer arrestor for your dishwasher.

The hammer arrestor has screw-on connections for installation, making it simple for a dishwasher and washing machine to install anywhere in the house.

Do I Need a Water Hammer Arrestor with Pex?

A water hammer arrestor is not required for a Pex. To understand this, there is a proper system in place. It also depends on your water system.

In CPVC and PEX, the maximum water flow rate is 8 feet per second. You do not need to install a water hammer arrestor for this.

Final Thoughts!

This article delves into a detailed explanation of why the shower valve requires a hammer arrestor. Your plumbing can encounter various problems, but calling a plumber is not always necessary. You can acquire the techniques and knowledge discussed here to create your own hammer arrestors.

That’s how you can solve a variety of plumbing issues on your own. Stay safe and enjoy the process. We’ll return with detailed instructions and a solution to another plumbing system issue in your home.