Pipes Banging in the Walls: Water Hammer Causes and Fixes

What are the 4 causes of pipes banging in the walls?

The 4 causes of pipes banging in the walls are listed below.

• Fast-closing valves in washers and dishwashers stop the water suddenly.
• High water pressure above 80 PSI strengthens the shock.
• Loose pipe straps let the pipe hit the framing.
• Air chambers that filled with water stop absorbing the shock.

Is water hammer dangerous?

Yes, water hammer is dangerous to the plumbing, because each shock loosens joints and strains valves until they leak.

What should you do about banging pipes?

The 4 things you should do about banging pipes are listed below.

1. Note which appliance or faucet causes the bang.
2. Check the water pressure with a gauge on a hose bib.
3. Drain the plumbing to refill the air chambers.
4. Call a plumber to install hammer arrestors or a pressure reducing valve.

When should you call a plumber?

You should call a plumber in the 4 situations below.

• The water pressure reads above 80 PSI.
• Banging continues after draining the lines.
• Joints leak near the banging.
• The banging starts after a new appliance.

Related plumbing problems and next steps

How much does the plumbing repair cost?

The plumbing repair cost depends on the fix: a water pressure regulator replacement costs $250–$350, according to HomeAdvisor. Pressure reducing valve prices and local plumbers are on the pressure reducing valve in Lancaster, PA page.

What is a related plumbing problem?

A related plumbing problem is pipe burst in house what to do, and the pipe burst in house what to do guide lists its causes and first steps.

Written and fact-checked by the Lancaster PA Plumbers editorial team using HomeAdvisor, EPA WaterSense and City of Lancaster data. Last updated October 29, 2026.