Water pipes are a crucial part of every home. They provide us with the necessary water for drinking, bathing, and cooking. However, sometimes, air can get trapped in the water pipes, leading to low water pressure and other problems. If you’ve ever experienced a sudden decrease in water pressure, it may be due to air in your pipes. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the causes of air in water pipes and how to fix it.
Introduction to Air in Water Pipes
Air in water pipes can cause several problems, including low water pressure, water hammer, and noisy pipes. Low water pressure can make it difficult to wash dishes, take a shower, and perform other tasks that require water. Water hammer occurs when the water in the pipes suddenly stops flowing and creates a loud, banging sound.
Noisy pipes can be annoying and disruptive, especially at night when you’re trying to sleep. In this article, we’ll explore the causes of air in water pipes and what you can do to fix it.
Common Causes of Air in Water Pipes
There are several reasons why air can get trapped in water pipes. Some of the most common causes include:
1. Air Leaks in the Pipes
One of the most common causes of air in water pipes is air leaks in the pipes themselves. Air leaks can occur due to cracks or holes in the pipes, which allow air to enter the system.
2. High Water Pressure
Another common cause of air in water pipes is high water pressure. If the water pressure in your pipes is too high, it can cause the water to become aerated, meaning that it will contain a significant amount of air. This can lead to low water pressure and other problems.
If you have high water pressure, you should have a professional inspect your pipes to determine the cause and make any necessary adjustments.
3. Blocked Pipes
Blocked pipes can be a common cause of air to get trapped in your water pipes. If a pipe is blocked, the water will have trouble flowing through it, which can cause air to become trapped in the system. Blocked pipes can be caused by a variety of factors, including debris, mineral buildup, and corrosion.
4. Corrosion in Pipes
Corrosion in pipes can also trap air in water pipes. Over time, the pipes may become corroded due to exposure to water and other elements. This can cause the pipes to leak air, which will then become trapped in the water and reduce the water pressure.
5. Improperly Installed Pipes
Improperly installed pipes can also cause air in water pipes. If the pipes are not installed correctly, air can become trapped in the system, which will then reduce the water pressure.
How to Fix Air in Water Pipes
There are several steps that you can take to fix air in your water pipes. Some of the most effective methods include:
1. Bleed the Air Out
One of the easiest ways to fix air in water pipes is to bleed the air out. This involves opening a faucet in your home and allowing the water to flow until the air is expelled from the system.
You can also use a plumbing tool called a “venturi pump” to help remove the air from your pipes.
2. Install an Expansion Tank
An expansion tank is a device that helps to control the water pressure in your pipes. When water is heated, it expands and can cause the pressure in your pipes to increase.
An expansion tank helps to absorb this pressure and keep it under control. If you have high water pressure, you may want to consider installing an expansion tank to help resolve the problem.
3. Replace Damaged Pipes
If air leaks are the cause of your problems, you may need to replace your pipes. Damaged pipes can be a source of air in the water system, leading to low water pressure and other issues. A professional plumber will be able to inspect your pipes and determine if they need to be replaced.
If they do, the plumber will be able to remove the damaged pipes and install new ones, which will help to improve the water pressure and resolve any other problems that you may be experiencing.
4. Unblock the Pipes
If your pipes are blocked, you will need to have them unblocked to resolve the issue. This may involve removing any debris or mineral buildup that is causing the blockage.
A professional plumber will be able to inspect your pipes and determine what is causing the blockage, and then remove it to improve the water flow and resolve any other issues that you may be experiencing.
Conclusion
Air in water pipes can cause low water pressure, water hammer, and noisy pipes. There are several common causes of air in water pipes, including air leaks in the pipes, high water pressure, and blocked pipes. To fix air in water pipes, you can bleed the air out, install an expansion tank, replace damaged pipes, or unblock the pipes.
If you’re experiencing any issues with your water pipes, it’s important to have a professional inspect your system to determine the cause and make any necessary repairs.
FAQs
How do I know if I have air in my water pipes?
You may have air in your water pipes if you are experiencing low water pressure, water hammer, or noisy pipes.
Can high water pressure cause air in water pipes?
Yes, high water pressure can cause air in water pipes as it can make the water become aerated, meaning that it will contain a significant amount of air.
What is an expansion tank and how does it help with air in water pipes?
An expansion tank is a device that helps to control the water pressure in your pipes. It helps to absorb pressure and keep it under control, which can help resolve the problem of air in water pipes.
Can a professional plumber help with air in water pipes?
Yes, a professional plumber can help with air in water pipes. They can inspect your pipes, determine the cause of the problem, and make any necessary repairs to resolve the issue.
Can I resolve air in water pipes on my own?
While you may be able to bleed the air out of your water pipes on your own, it’s important to have a professional inspect your system to determine the cause of the problem and make any necessary repairs.
