What is a common symptom of water hammer in pipes?

A common symptom of water hammer in pipes is the occurrence of sudden banging noises. Water hammer is a phenomenon that happens when a fluid in motion is forced to stop or change direction suddenly, resulting in shock waves throughout the plumbing system. This can create loud banging or thumping sounds as the pipes vibrate against surrounding structures.

The sudden change in pressure causes the water to instantaneously reverse its flow or come to an abrupt stop, leading to these characteristic noises. Recognizing this sound is critical for identifying potential issues within the plumbing system that may need to be addressed to prevent damage or leaks.