I've been getting pretty bad water hammer from my washing machine. I was wondering if I could buy the water hammer arrestors myself from Bunnings and install them, or would that void any insurance claims because it wasn't done by a plumber?
I did some searching and there's no clear rule on what can/can't be done. I'm in VIC btw.
Make sure you use plumbers thread seal tape on the connectors like you use when replacing a normal tap washer on the tap spindle thread.
And make sure you wind the tape in the correct direction also
I haven't done it before, any good youtube video I can follow for the installation?
Also PM me the link if you can :)
@gaber: Hire a plumber to do the work as you do not want leaks as water leaks can cause major structural issues over time.
No reason why the insurance issue should arise if you install them properly, and it is a very simple job. Just make sure to use teflon tape on the connections
DIY.
Have you tried turning down the taps that supply your washing machine? I'd think lower flow would lessen the impact of the solenoid shutting.
Yup, I've turned them down by half and the noise is less obvious but still there. Not sure if turning them down to 1/4 would affect the operation of the washing machine? Also there's no tap for the hot water..
I've used the Sioux Chief with the diameter of the laundry hose fittings. With plumbing tape it's done a great job, and best to check for leaks (plumbing tape) to ensure a good fit.
Been in for 4 years now and significantly reduced the water hammer. It can't make it nothing but the dampening is significant (approx 80%).
I did some searching and there's no clear rule on what can/can't be done.
Maybe you can tell us about your skillz? that might be more important.
Never done pipe/connector installations before but I'm pretty good at following instruction videos haha
1st thing to try: a different tap washer design. Worth a try.
https://www.bunnings.com.au/sioux-chief-20mm-dishwasher-aa-s…
I ordered one of these through Bunnings. Simple to install as it goes directly on the tap then the hose attaches to it. Still needed to reduce the flow rate to completely eliminate the water hammer.
Thanks, that's what I was looking at too.
Did you have to use any plumber's tape? I've read that it has a rubber seal inside so tape isn't needed.
Also the delivery time is insane - late July to Nov :(
It seals on the rubber washers and is as simple as connecting the hose itself. May need a shifter etc just to tighten it a little bit more. I ordered one last year, it only took a few weeks to arrive. Maybe try Reece.
No warranty if it's not installed by a licensed plumber. Also, if the arrester failed or wasn't secured properly, it may flood your house/damage a ceiling etc. Which may void your home insurance. Same as electrical.
Sure, but how would insurer ever know/ prove this?
OP:
“Yeah, a plumber installed it, cant remember his name and he insisted on being paid in cash so unfortunately I don’t have a receipt or invoice”
Insurer: well that last part definitely sounds about right so… your story checks out
Fit extra piping saddles everywhere you can access. Easy.
Turn your mains supply tap down to just enough for shower needs. Very easy.
99% of pressure shock goes away for free, and your water bills fall heaps.
Then unless you know exactly what you are doing with the device type, tools and pipes in your particular situation,
get a tradesman in.
Finally, find… repeat find and check your State/Local Government Laws and Insurance Policy Rules before you start. You could be doing yourself a disservice by not using a professional.
The question 'can you' is not what you should ask. Almost anyone can do almost anything. But should you…….?
Dang. I just added a link to a DIY arrestor. So yes, DIY if it designed for that type of installation.
There are others that perform better and are inline arrestors that need to be installed by a plumber. You could try DIY with these but you want to be pretty confident with your copper joins.