Install Check Valve — Install the Water Hammer Arrestors
Part of project
How to Install a Water Hammer Arrestor to Stop Banging Pipes · Step 3 of 5
In this video
To begin, take the brass check valve and wrap the male threaded end with Teflon tape in a clockwise direction. Ensure several layers are applied to create a good seal. Then, hand-thread the check valve into the inlet port of the water pump. Once it is hand-tight, use an adjustable wrench to securely tighten the fitting into the pump housing.
Goal: Attach the check valve to the pump inlet
- Wrapping Teflon tape in the same direction you will be tightening the fitting helps prevent it from unraveling.
Used in this video
- Adjustable Wrench (Tool Type: Hand tools, Power Source: Manual) — Tightening the brass check valve into the pump.
- Water Pump (Brand: JETS-100, Tool Type: Power tools, Power Source: Electric) — The main component of the installation, used to increase water pressure.
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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.
Install Check Valve — Install the Water Hammer Arrestors
Part of project
How to Install a Water Hammer Arrestor to Stop Banging Pipes · Step 3 of 5
In this video
To begin, take the brass check valve and wrap the male threaded end with Teflon tape in a clockwise direction. Ensure several layers are applied to create a good seal. Then, hand-thread the check valve into the inlet port of the water pump. Once it is hand-tight, use an adjustable wrench to securely tighten the fitting into the pump housing.
Goal: Attach the check valve to the pump inlet
- Wrapping Teflon tape in the same direction you will be tightening the fitting helps prevent it from unraveling.
Used in this video
- Adjustable Wrench (Tool Type: Hand tools, Power Source: Manual) — Tightening the brass check valve into the pump.
- Water Pump (Brand: JETS-100, Tool Type: Power tools, Power Source: Electric) — The main component of the installation, used to increase water pressure.
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.