Remove Washing Machine Water Arrestors (Optional) — Preparation and Material Gathering
Part of project
How to Install a Water Hammer Arrestor to Stop Banging Pipes · Step 1 of 5
In this video
The host suggests that water arrestors on a washing machine are often unnecessary and can introduce other issues like water restriction or different noises. As an initial diagnostic step, he recommends removing the water arrestors from the washing machine's hot and cold supply lines. If this resolves the banging noise, no further action may be necessary.
Goal: Eliminate potential causes of noise
- Water arrestors on washing machines are not always necessary and can sometimes create their own set of noises or restrict water flow.
Used in this video
- Pliers (brand: N/A, Tool Type: Hand tools) — To loosen the connections for the water arrestors on the washing machine supply lines.
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FAQs
Why do my washing machine pipes bang, and how do these arrestors help?
Washing machines often cause "water hammer" because their solenoid valves close very quickly, creating a sudden pressure surge in the water lines. Water hammer arrestors absorb this shock wave, preventing pipes from banging, vibrating, and potentially damaging your plumbing system over time.
What specific tools and materials are essential for installing these screw-on arrestors?
You will primarily need two adjustable wrenches or groove joint pliers (e.g., Husky 12 in. Adjustable Wrench, Channellock 12 in. Tongue and Groove Slip Joint Pliers) to properly tighten the connections. PTFE thread seal tape (plumber's tape) is crucial for preventing leaks, and a bucket and towels will be useful for catching any drips.
Is this a difficult project for someone new to DIY, and how much time should I set aside?
This is considered a beginner-level plumbing project, making it very approachable for DIY novices. The actual installation of the arrestors is quick, but accounting for water shut-off, hose disconnection, installation, and thorough leak testing, allow approximately 1 to 2 hours to complete the task.
What are the most important safety precautions to take during this installation?
Always shut off the water supply to the washing machine (or the main house supply) before starting to prevent flooding. Have a bucket and towels handy for any residual water. Be careful not to overtighten connections, as this can strip threads or crack fittings, potentially leading to leaks.
Remove Washing Machine Water Arrestors (Optional) — Preparation and Material Gathering
Part of project
How to Install a Water Hammer Arrestor to Stop Banging Pipes · Step 1 of 5
In this video
The host suggests that water arrestors on a washing machine are often unnecessary and can introduce other issues like water restriction or different noises. As an initial diagnostic step, he recommends removing the water arrestors from the washing machine's hot and cold supply lines. If this resolves the banging noise, no further action may be necessary.
Goal: Eliminate potential causes of noise
- Water arrestors on washing machines are not always necessary and can sometimes create their own set of noises or restrict water flow.
Used in this video
- Pliers (brand: N/A, Tool Type: Hand tools) — To loosen the connections for the water arrestors on the washing machine supply lines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do my washing machine pipes bang, and how do these arrestors help?
Washing machines often cause "water hammer" because their solenoid valves close very quickly, creating a sudden pressure surge in the water lines. Water hammer arrestors absorb this shock wave, preventing pipes from banging, vibrating, and potentially damaging your plumbing system over time.
What specific tools and materials are essential for installing these screw-on arrestors?
You will primarily need two adjustable wrenches or groove joint pliers (e.g., Husky 12 in. Adjustable Wrench, Channellock 12 in. Tongue and Groove Slip Joint Pliers) to properly tighten the connections. PTFE thread seal tape (plumber's tape) is crucial for preventing leaks, and a bucket and towels will be useful for catching any drips.
Is this a difficult project for someone new to DIY, and how much time should I set aside?
This is considered a beginner-level plumbing project, making it very approachable for DIY novices. The actual installation of the arrestors is quick, but accounting for water shut-off, hose disconnection, installation, and thorough leak testing, allow approximately 1 to 2 hours to complete the task.
What are the most important safety precautions to take during this installation?
Always shut off the water supply to the washing machine (or the main house supply) before starting to prevent flooding. Have a bucket and towels handy for any residual water. Be careful not to overtighten connections, as this can strip threads or crack fittings, potentially leading to leaks.