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-   -   Air lock or hammer lock (https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/showthread.php?t=161898)

  • Dec 12, 2007, 07:42 AM
    gijoehood
    Air lock or hammer lock
    I was just wondering how I can rememdy hammer lock or airlock? I think that is what it is. I just bought this house that has been sitting for 3 months unoccuppied. I connected my washer and when the washer starts to cycle by pulling water to the unit, I hear this bang evertime it purges water. How do I fix this problem?

    Thank you,

    Ced
  • Dec 12, 2007, 07:08 PM
    doug238
    Possibly by installing an expansion tank at the water heater.
  • Dec 13, 2007, 08:02 AM
    speedball1
    Doug has one solution let me add another. "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
  • Dec 13, 2007, 05:20 PM
    iamgrowler
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by gijoehood
    I was just wondering how i can rememdy hammer lock or airlock? I think that is what it is. I just bought this house that has been sitting for 3 months unoccuppied. I conected my washer and when the washer starts to cycle by pulling water to the unit, i hear this bang evertime it purges water. How do i fix this problem?

    It sounds like you need to install Sioux Chief 660-H's on the washer feeds.

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