[melandel]

:( Used to be okay to shut off water when traveling, and turn back on returning in a couple of weeks. Prior to this trouble that's what we did. Only difference is that prior to last trip we had a fill mechanism replaced by a professional in one toilet. This toilet is back to back with one at other side of wall. Both bath rooms react same way (hammer) with heavy start-stop. Both OK with gentle start-stop. Any suggestions?

[biggsie]

I wish there was a simple fix -- check out these links for ideas

How To Cure Water Hammer - SimplifyDIY - DIY and Home Improvement Solutions

Howstuffworks "How to Repair Plumbing Pipes: Tips and Guidelines"

Please let me know if you need more help

[speedball1]

Biggsie you got to stop putting up links that don't help. The link you supplied for low water pressure gave 4 options for increasing water pressure. The first advised checking the aerator and the other three advised getting in a plumber and repiping the house. The link on this thread instructs the asker to install a air chamber on the offending fixture. We aren't dealing with plumbers here. These are just folk that wish to do their own repair if possible. Let me show you what I want to give our members back when they ask a question.

Hi Melandel,

What you have is water hammer. Let me show you how to make it go away.
"Water hammer" happens when you abruptly shut off the water. You have at least 40 pounds of pressure pushing the water flow. The weight of the water hitting a 90 degree bend causes the sound that you hear. We put in shock absorbers,(air chambers) to cushion the hammer much like the shocks on your car.
Back in the 60's we were required to to put shock absorbers,(air chambers) on all bath lavatorys and kitchen sinks. Over time water and condensate built up in them and they must be recharged. First turn off the house at the main house shut off valve. Then open hot and cold faucets at the farthest bathroom to prevent air lock.(This is important.) You will find under each fixture little brass or chrome valves. These are called angle stops. With a small pail held under the angle stop to catch the run off look under the handle of the stop and you will see a nut with the stem running through it. This is called the bonnet packing nut. Put your wrench on it and back it off counterclockwise. Now open the stop and remove the stem and washer assembly, The stop will begain to drain. When it has quit draining reassemble the stop and move on to the next one. Do this on each one of your angle stops. There will be six of them in a two bath home. When you are done, close off the faucets you have opened, turn on the water to the house, and give yourself a pat on the back.
You have just recharged your air chambers and saved yourself a hefty service call bill. Hope this helps you out TOM
That's what they want to see Biggsie. Not a link that tellls them to call in a plumber or repipe their house. Rule of thumb. First explain what's happening and then give them repair options. That's why we're here. To pass on our experience to those who can best use it. Please don't think that I'm being "nasty" or "bossy" but I detect a pattern beginning here and just thought I'd give you a heads up. I consider you a valued asset to the plumbing page and I hope you'll take this criticism as a friendly observation and not mean spirited. Regards, Tom

[ballengerb1]

Yep, I pretty much agree with Tom here. I read the links and it was like giving someone an encyclopedia when they ask a question. Good plumbing answers are given in terms we simple folk can understand.
By the way Melandel, it is still OK to shut your water off when you go on trips, it has nothing to do with your problem but be sure to shut down your water heater if you shut off your main.

[speedball1]

biggsie: You assumed all plumbers :We put in shock absorbers,(air chambers) to cushion the hammer much like the shocks on your car.

No Biggsie, I "assumed" nothing. Air chambers have been mandated by code since the 60's. It only makes good plumbing sense to install air chambers in new construction. Regards, Tom