A water hammer arrestor is a device used to control and eliminate the hydraulic shock or pressure surge known as water hammer in plumbing systems.

Water hammer can cause damage to pipes, fittings, and appliances, and can lead to noise disturbances. Water hammer arrestors help mitigate these issues by absorbing the pressure fluctuations and preventing damage.

Water hammer occurs when there is a sudden change or interruption in the flow of water, typically caused by the rapid opening or closing of valves or sudden changes in water velocity.

Water hammer arrestors contain a cushion of air or gas that compresses when pressure surges occur, absorbing the shock and preventing the formation of damaging pressure waves.

Using a water hammer arrestor can reduce noise, prevent pipe damage, extend the lifespan of plumbing components, and improve the overall performance and reliability of the plumbing system.

When a water hammer arrestor is labeled as "lead-free," it specifically refers to the brass fittings or connections used in the arrestor. It means that these components are manufactured without the use of lead. It's worth noting that the term "lead-free" should not be applied to stainless steel or copper bodies, as these materials do not contain lead, and it can be misleading to claim them as "lead-free."

Having a lead-free water hammer arrestor is crucial for ensuring the safety and health of drinking water. Lead is a toxic substance that can leach into the water supply, posing serious health risks, especially when consumed over time. By using lead-free arrestors, the potential for lead contamination is eliminated.

Various regulations and standards, such as the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) in the United States, govern the use of lead-free plumbing products. Additionally, the NSF/ANSI 372 standard certifies products as safe for use in drinking water systems. These regulations primarily focus on the lead content in brass fittings and connections. In Australia, the National Plumbing and Drainage Code, as well as the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines, set requirements for lead-free plumbing products. It is essential to comply with these standards to provide consumers with safe and reliable plumbing systems. It's worth noting that the term "lead-free" should not be applied to stainless steel or copper bodies, as these materials do not contain lead, and it can be misleading to claim them as "lead-free."

Factors such as pipe size, water flow rate, system pressure, and the severity of water hammer should be considered to select an appropriately sized water hammer arrestor.

When we refer to the "size" of a water hammer arrestor, we are specifically talking about its capacity to absorb pressure surges and mitigate water hammer, rather than its connection diameter. Water hammer arrestors are available in different sizes, often identified by letters such as AA, A, B, C, D, E, and F. These letters correspond to different capacities, with AA being the smallest and F being the largest. The size of the arrestor determines the volume of air or gas contained within it, which directly impacts its ability to absorb and dissipate the energy from pressure surges. Selecting the appropriate size of the water hammer arrestor is crucial for ensuring its effectiveness in your specific system. It should be based on factors such as the flow rate, pipe diameter, and length of the piping system, as well as the severity of the water hammer experienced. Consulting with a professional plumber or engineer familiar with water hammer arrestors can help you determine the correct size for your system. They can assess the specific parameters of your system and recommend the appropriate size arrestor (e.g., AA, A, B, etc.) that will provide sufficient capacity to effectively manage water hammer and maintain system integrity.

Fixture units are a standardized measurement used in plumbing to determine the water demand of various fixtures, such as faucets, toilets, showers, and appliances. Each fixture is assigned a fixture unit value based on its expected water flow rate and usage. Fixture units play a role in sizing water hammer arrestors because they help estimate the overall water demand and flow rate within a system. The higher the fixture unit count, the larger the water supply required, which can contribute to more significant pressure surges and water hammer. When sizing water hammer arrestors, it is important to consider the fixture unit count and the specific fixtures connected to the system. By assessing the total fixture unit count and understanding the flow characteristics of the fixtures, professionals can determine the appropriate capacity and number of water hammer arrestors needed to effectively absorb and mitigate pressure surges. Working with a plumbing professional or consulting the appropriate plumbing codes and guidelines can help ensure that the sizing of water hammer arrestors aligns with the fixture unit count and provides adequate protection against water hammer events.

Water hammer arrestors should be installed as close as possible to the source of water hammer, typically near fixtures, appliances, or at the point of valve closures.

Copper piston water hammer arrestors can be installed in either orientation, depending on the specific requirements and available space in the plumbing system. Stainless steel bellows are recommended to be installed vertically for the best performance.

Installing water hammer arrestors can be done by homeowners, especially with the availability of DIY options like the SURGEx-DIY range. These arrestors are specifically designed for easy installation without requiring the expertise of a skilled plumber. The SURGEx-DIY arrestors are integrated with threaded fittings and swivel connections, allowing for simple connection to various fixtures such as dishwashers and washing machines. They are also suitable for general plumbing applications. However, if you are uncertain about the installation process or have a complex plumbing system, it is still recommended to consult a professional to ensure proper installation and optimal performance.

Yes, water hammer arrestors can be retrofitted into existing plumbing systems to address water hammer issues.

Piston water hammer arrestors use a moving piston to absorb pressure fluctuations, while bellows water hammer arrestors use a flexible bellows to absorb the shock.

The choice between piston and bellows water hammer arrestors depends on various factors, including system pressure, temperature, space constraints, and cost considerations. Piston water hammer arrestors feature a copper piston that moves inside a cylinder to absorb pressure surges. They are known for their compact design, making them suitable for installations with limited space. In smaller sizes, the copper piston's slim shape allows for installation in narrow areas. However, in larger sizes like D, E, and F, the copper piston can be bulkier compared to stainless steel bellows. Bellows water hammer arrestors, on the other hand, use a stainless steel bellows chamber that expands and contracts to absorb and release pressure surges. They are generally more expensive but offer advantages such as higher working pressures and temperatures. The stainless steel construction provides excellent durability and resistance to corrosion. When choosing between piston and bellows water hammer arrestors, consider factors such as the system's operating pressure, temperature range, available space for installation, and budget. If your system requires higher working pressures and temperatures, the stainless steel bellows arrestors may be a more suitable choice. However, if space is a constraint or you need a compact design, the copper piston arrestors may be preferred in smaller sizes. It is important to consult with a professional or specialized supplier who can assess your specific system requirements and provide guidance on the most appropriate type and size of water hammer arrestor for your application.

Nitrogen-charged water hammer arrestors offer several advantages compared to air-charged ones. Firstly, nitrogen has a higher molecular weight than air, which allows for better dissipation of energy and improved shock absorption during water hammer events. This results in enhanced performance and greater efficiency in reducing pressure spikes. Secondly, nitrogen is a non-corrosive gas, making it ideal for long-term use in plumbing systems. It helps prevent internal corrosion and extends the lifespan of the arrestor. Furthermore, nitrogen-charged arrestors maintain a more stable charge over time, as nitrogen molecules are less prone to leakage compared to air. This ensures consistent performance and reduces the need for frequent recharging or maintenance. Lastly, nitrogen-charged arrestors are designed to handle higher working pressures and temperature ranges, providing increased durability and reliability in demanding applications. Overall, the use of nitrogen in water hammer arrestors offers superior performance, longer lifespan, better corrosion resistance, and enhanced stability, making them a preferred choice for efficient and effective water hammer mitigation.

Water hammer arrestors are designed to have a long lifespan, typically ranging from 10 to 20 years or more, depending on factors such as proper sizing, usage, water quality, and maintenance.

No, water hammer arrestors do not typically need to be charged with gas by the end-user. Both copper piston and stainless steel bellows water hammer arrestors are typically charged with gas (such as nitrogen) at the factory during the manufacturing process. They are then hermetically sealed to maintain the gas charge. This pre-charging ensures that the arrestors are ready for use upon installation and eliminates the need for additional charging by the user. The gas charge inside the arrestor provides the necessary cushioning effect to absorb pressure surges and prevent water hammer. Therefore, there is generally no need for the user to charge the water hammer arrestor, as they are designed to remain effective without any additional gas charging throughout their lifespan.

Water hammer arrestors are designed to be maintenance-free. They are typically labeled as such and do not require regular maintenance or adjustments. However, it is still advisable to periodically inspect them for any signs of damage or leaks. Flushing the arrestor to remove sediment or debris may be necessary in some cases. Overall, water hammer arrestors offer the convenience of minimal maintenance while providing long-lasting protection against water hammer issues.

If water hammer persists after installing a water hammer arrestor, it could indicate an undersized or improperly installed arrestor. It is recommended to consult a plumbing professional to assess the system, ensure correct installation, and determine if a larger or additional arrestor is required.