Unraveling the Mystery of Sudden Pipe Shuddering: A Comprehensive Guide

If you've suddenly noticed that your plastic pipes are suddently shuddering each time water is turned on, this can be disconcerting. Understanding the potential causes and solutions can help you address the problem efficiently.

Understanding the Causes of Sudden Pipe Shuddering

The shuddering in plastic pipes can be attributed to a variety of factors. Let's explore some common reasons and the steps you can take to remedy the situation.

1. Corroded Washers

One of the primary culprits behind sudden pipe shuddering is a corroded washer. Both a shutoff valve washer and a toilet valve washer can wear out over time. When a washer becomes worn, it can no longer provide a secure seal, leading to a sudden shudder in the pipes when water is turned on.

2. Air Hammer in the System

Water hammer, often colloquially referred to as air hammer, can also cause this phenomenon. This occurs when there's a sudden change in the velocity of water in the pipes, causing a shock wave to travel back through the system. This shock wave can result in the pipes shuddering.

Solutions for Air Hammer

If you suspect air hammer in your system, you can try replenishing the air in your water hammer arrestors. Follow these steps:

Shut off the water supply. Open the faucets to drain the system. After the water has completely drained, close the faucets. Turn the water supply back on and check the pipes.

3. Restricted Flow Due to Rust

Another possible cause of sudden pipe shuddering is rust buildup in the pipes. Over time, rust can accumulate within the pipes, restricting water flow. This restricted flow can create turbulence, leading to the shuddering you've noticed.

Troubleshooting Rust Buildup

To address rust buildup, you may need to expose the pipes and clean them. This is a more invasive process but can be necessary to ensure efficient water flow.

Adjusting Water Pressure and Installing Water Hammer Arrestors

In some cases, the movement of water in the pipes can cause them to shudder due to fluctuating water pressure. Here are a couple of solutions you can consider:

1. Lowering Water Pressure

Reducing water pressure can help mitigate the shuddering. You can do this by adjusting the water pressure regulator. Lowering the pressure can reduce the severity of water hammer, making your pipes more stable.

2. Installing Water Hammer Arrestors

For a more straightforward solution, installing water hammer arrestors can provide significant relief. These devices work by capturing the shock wave and converting it into compressed air, preventing the pipes from shuddering. While this solution is relatively inexpensive, you should check that the arrestors are properly installed to ensure optimal performance.

Expensive Fixes and Professional Assistance

For severe cases, you might need to consider more invasive solutions. Exposing and supporting the pipes can be necessary if the shuddering is caused by inadequate pipe supports. This involves professional assistance to ensure the pipes are properly secured and supported.

Conclusion

By identifying and addressing the underlying causes of sudden pipe shuddering, you can maintain the integrity and functionality of your plumbing system. Whether it's adjusting water pressure, installing arrestors, or addressing rust or wear, taking action can prevent further problems and ensure smooth operation for years to come.

Key Takeaways:

Identify the potential causes of sudden pipe shuddering. Adjust water pressure if necessary. Install or replenish water hammer arrestors. Consider more extensive repairs if the issue persists.

Contact Us for More Information

If you find this information helpful or if you need more detailed guidance, feel free to contact our team. We're here to help you troubleshoot and resolve plumbing issues effectively.