What Causes Air In Water Pipes?

Water pipes are an integral part of any residential or commercial building’s plumbing system. They are responsible for the distribution of water throughout a property, ensuring that clean water is accessible at various points such as sinks, showers, and outdoor faucets. Sometimes air can get in the water pipes. We will learn in this article about where water pipes are located, identifying air in the pipes, and what causes air in water pipes.

What Are Water Pipes?

Water pipes are cylindrical tubes designed to transport water from the main supply to various fixtures and appliances within a building. These pipes can be made from various materials including PVC, copper, galvanized steel, and PEX.

Where Are Water Pipes Located?

Typically, water pipes are located within walls, beneath floors, and above ceilings. In some cases, they can also be found in the ground outside buildings, connecting the municipal water supply to the internal plumbing system.

How to Identify Air in Water Pipes?

Air trapped in water pipes usually manifests as irregular water flow, loud noises such as banging or whistling when a tap is turned on, sputtering at the outset of water flow, or vibrations in the pipes. This may help you find and give you ideas about what the causes of air in water pipes may be.

What Causes Air in Water Pipes?

Air in the water pipes can be caused by a few things:

1. Water Supply Turnoff: Shutting off the main water supply can sometimes allow air to enter the system.
2. System Repairs or Modifications: Any repairs or changes to the plumbing can introduce air into the pipes.
3. Faulty Valves or Seals: Compromised valves or seals may suck air back into the pipes when water pressure drops.
4. High Water Velocity: High speeds of water flow can create vacuum pockets that trap air.
5. Improperly-Sized Pipes: Oversized or undersized pipes can cause air chambers to form.

Why Air in Water Pipes Needs to Be Removed

Air in water pipes needs to be removed because it can lead to inconsistent water pressure. It can also lead to potential pipe damage due to water hammer, noise disturbance, and inefficient water heating.

Steps to Remove Air From Water Pipes Yourself

If you figure out what the causes of air in your water pipes are, you can remove the air yourself. Take a look below at the steps.

1. Turn Off Water Main: Locate the main shut-off valve and turn off your water supply.
2. Open Highest Faucet: Go to the highest level in your home and open the faucet.
3. Open Lowest Faucet: Find the lowest faucet in your home, often this is an outdoor hose bib or basement sink, and open it as well.
4. Turn On Water Supply: Reopen the main valve to allow water to push the air out through the open faucets.
5. Close Faucets: Once water flows consistently without sputtering, close the lowest faucet followed by the highest one.

How to Protect Your Plumbing?

Regular maintenance such as inspecting for leaks, proper insulation, and checking water pressure can extend the lifespan of your water pipes. It can also prevent issues like airlocks. To protect your plumbing, avoid chemical drain cleaners. Additionally, reduce water pressure if it’s too high, and soften hard water to minimize mineral buildup. Also, never allow your pipes to freeze. These are all good ways to make sure you protect your pipes.

Maintaining Pipes in Your Home

Now that you are aware of how air has gotten into your water pipes you can begin reviewing other possible plumbing issues in older homes. Once you purchase an older home, it is a great idea to read up on all of the possible issues that could arise. This allows you to save money towards any big repair needs down the road.

Next, there are other areas in your home where you might notice air bubbles in your water lines. The toilet is often a place that has an issue with too much air, based on the water pressure and the need to swap out old equipment. Be sure to understand why your toilet bubbles when the shower is running. This could be a result of air in your water lines.

Lastly, if you notice a problem with your bathroom smelling like sewage, you should immediately investigate this. Checking all drains and other possible causes during a sewer scope inspection is key. As you work to get the air out of your water pipes, you might also get rid of any clogs or bacteria build-up that has caused this foul smell.

When to Call a Professional

If you’ve attempted to remove the air and are still experiencing problems, it may be time to call a licensed plumber. Also, if you’re uncomfortable performing these steps yourself, reach out to a professional. It can be difficult to figure out the solution, especially if it is something a little more technical. A professional can help solve the issue.

Check out the video below about getting the air out of the water pipes in your house.

Conclusion

Maintaining a plumbing system free of air ensures efficient operation and longevity of your water pipes. Regular preventative maintenance alongside knowing how to deal with common issues like trapped air can save you from costly repairs and professional intervention. However, when in doubt, seeking professional help is always the best course of action. Contact Inside and Out Property Inspectors in Jacksonville, FL, and surrounding areas to get your sewer scope inspection done today.