Water Pipes Vibrate When Water is Turned Off: Causes, Consequences, and Fixes

Water pipe vibration is caused by pressure fluctuations and water hammer. Pressure fluctuations occur due to changes in water demand. Conversely, a water hammer is caused by sudden water stoppage or redirection.

But why exactly do water pipes vibrate when water is turned off? When water is turned off, the sudden stoppage or redirection of water can create a shock wave. It travels through the pipes, causing them to vibrate and make noise. Moreover, fluctuation in water pressure can cause the water to move too much, causing vibrations.

In this article, we will discuss this issue in detail and suggest effective fixes to solve this issue. Keep reading to learn more.

Why Do Water Pipes Vibrate When Water Is Turned Off?

Water pipe vibration is a common plumbing issue that can occur when the water is turned off, and the pipes suddenly experience a jolt of pressure. The two main causes of water pipe vibration are

• Water hammer
• Pressure fluctuations

In both cases the sudden changes in pressure cause the pipes to vibrate. This leads to the noise and potential damage associated with water pipe vibration.

Understanding these causes is essential in preventing and addressing water pipe vibration issues in your plumbing system.

Water Hammer

A water hammer occurs when a water valve is closed suddenly, causing the water to stop flowing abruptly. This creates a shock wave that travels through the pipes, causing them to vibrate and shake.

The physics behind the water hammer is based on the energy conservation principle. When the water valve is closed, the energy that is driving the water through the pipes is suddenly stopped. Afterward, that energy is converted into a shock wave that travels through the pipes.

Pressure Fluctuations

When the water pressure in the pipes fluctuates, the water can move back and forth in the pipes, creating vibrations. This can be caused by various factors, including

• Changes in the water supply pressure
• Changes in the demand for water
• Problems with the plumbing system itself

The physics behind pressure fluctuations is based on the principle of fluid dynamics. When the pressure in the pipes changes, the water in the pipes will move to equalize the pressure. This movement can create vibrations in the pipes, which can be felt as water pipe vibration.

Consequences of Water Pipe Vibration

Water pipe vibration can have several potential consequences, including

• Damage to the pipes and fixtures
• Noise pollution

Understanding these consequences is crucial in preventing and addressing water pipe vibration issues.

Damage To The Pipes And Fixtures

This is one of the most significant consequences of water pipe vibration. The constant shaking and vibrating of the pipes can cause them to weaken and eventually lead to leaks or even burst pipes.

Additionally, fixtures such as faucets, toilets, and showerheads can become loose or damaged from repeated vibrations.

Noise Pollution

Another consequence of water pipe vibration is noise pollution. The loud rattling and banging noise that can result from water pipe vibration is disruptive. It can annoy those in the vicinity.

This can be particularly problematic at night when people are trying to sleep or during the day when trying to concentrate.

How to Fix Water Pipe Vibration When Water Is Turned Off?

There are several different methods used to fix water pipe vibration, including

1. Water hammer arrestors
2. Pressure regulators

Each of these methods works in different ways and should be used in different situations. This depends on the specific plumbing system and the potential causes of water pipe vibration.

Method 1: Water Hammer Arrestors

A water hammer arrestor is a plumbing device designed to prevent water hammer. This is a hydraulic shock that occurs when the flow of water is suddenly stopped in a pipe. Water hammers can cause damage to pipes, fixtures, and appliances and can also be very loud.

A water hammer arrestor typically consists of a chamber with a piston or diaphragm inside. It compresses air or gas as water flows through the pipes. When the flow of water is suddenly stopped, the compressed air or gas in the chamber absorbs the shock and prevents it from damaging the plumbing system.

This is one of the most common methods used to prevent water pipe vibration caused by water hammers. These devices are installed at the point where the water valve is closed, such as at the

• Washing machine
• Dishwasher

Water hammer arrestors are typically used in residential plumbing systems and can be installed by a plumber.

Here’s the installation process:

1. Locate the water valve: The water hammer arrestor should be installed at the point where the water valve is closed. This may be at the washing machine, dishwasher, or other appliance.  The valve could be located directly behind the washing machine, dishwasher, or toilet, for example.
2. Turn off the water supply: Before installing the water hammer arrestor, the water supply to the appliance must be turned off. This can typically be done using a valve located near the appliance or by shutting off the main water supply.
3. Drain the pipes: After the water supply has been turned off, the pipes must be drained to remove any remaining water. This can be done by opening a faucet or drain valve.
4. Install the water hammer arrestor: The water hammer arrestor should be installed between the shut-off valve and the appliance. The installation instructions will vary depending on the specific model of the water hammer arrestor being used. However, it typically involves
   
   Cutting the pipe, and attaching the arrestor using compression fittings or soldering.
5. Test the system: Once the water hammer arrestor has been installed, the water supply can be turned back on. Afterward, the system should be tested to ensure that it is working correctly. This can be done by
   
   Turning on the appliance, and checking for any signs of water pipe vibration or noise

Method 2: Pressure Regulators

This is a method used to prevent water pipe vibration caused by pressure fluctuations. The pressure regulators are installed at the point where the water supply enters the building. They regulate the water pressure to maintain consistent pressure throughout the plumbing system.

Here’s the installation process of a pressure regulator.

1. Locate the main water supply: The pressure regulator should be installed at the point where the main water supply enters the building. This may be located in the basement or near the water meter.
2. Turn off the water supply: Before installing the pressure regulator, the main water supply to the building must be turned off. This can typically be done by shutting off the main water valve.
3. Drain the pipes: After the water supply has been turned off, the pipes must be drained to remove any remaining water. This can be done by opening a faucet or drain valve.
4. Remove the existing valve: Sometimes there can be an existing valve at the point where the water supply enters the building. It must be removed before the pressure regulator can be installed.
5. Install the pressure regulator: The pressure regulator should be installed in place of the existing valve. The installation instructions will vary depending on the specific model of pressure regulator being used. However, it typically involves attaching the regulator to the pipe using compression fittings or soldering.
6. Test the system: Once the pressure regulator has been installed, the water supply can be turned back on. Afterward, the system should be tested to ensure that it is working correctly. This can be done by
   
   Checking the water pressure at different points in the plumbing system, and Adjusting the regulator if necessary

FAQs

Let’s look at some additional questions and their answers related to the above discussions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, water pipe vibration is a common problem that can cause damage to plumbing fixtures and create noise pollution. The good news is that there are effective methods for preventing water pipe vibration and maintaining a healthy plumbing system.

Water hammer arrestors and pressure regulators can absorb or regulate pressure fluctuations in the pipes. This prevents shock waves that cause vibration and noise. Proper installation and maintenance of these devices are crucial to ensure their effectiveness and prevent potential damage.