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View Full Version : Knocking hot water to dishwasher and washer only.


uktyke
May 10, 2013, 07:14 AM
When the dishwasher stops filling it knocks. It also does it on the washer but not always. I have had the washer for five years and no problem. I have had the new dishwasher for 6 months and it did not do this until recently.
We did have the house repiped several years ago and had problems with the cold water but had that fixed. What happened to the hot water suddenly?

speedball1
May 10, 2013, 03:11 PM
Sounds like water hammer. If, when they repiped your house they had installed air chambers,(shock absorbers) on all vanities and the kitchen sink as mandated by code perhaps they need to be recharged. "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 air chambers to cushion the hammer much like the shocks on your car.
Back in the 60's we were required to to put air chambers on all bath lavatories 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 began 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 and thank you for rating my reply. Tom