How to remove airlock from water pipes
When you turn on the tap, but no water comes out, it can be frustrating and inconvenient. One possible reason for this issue is an airlock in the water pipes. An airlock occurs when a pocket of air gets trapped in the pipes, preventing the flow of water. Luckily, there are simple methods you can try to remove the airlock and restore the water flow in your pipes.
Step 1: Identify the Location
Before you attempt to remove the airlock, first, you need to identify where the airlock is located in your water system. This is usually the furthest point from the main water supply, such as a faucet or tap on the upper floor of your house. Knowing the location will help you determine the best method to remove the airlock.
Step 2: Turn off the Water Supply
Once you have identified the location of the airlock, it’s important to turn off the water supply to the affected area. This will prevent any potential leaks or splashes while you are working to remove the airlock from the pipes. Make sure to turn off the main water supply or isolate the specific section of the water system.
Step 3: Open the Taps
To release the trapped air, you will need to open the taps or faucets at the affected area. Start with the furthest tap or faucet from the main water supply and work your way closer. Leave each tap or faucet open for a few seconds to allow the air to escape. You may hear gurgling sounds as the air is released.
Step 4: Restart the Water Supply
Once you have successfully released the airlock, it’s time to restart the water supply. Slowly turn the main water supply back on or open the valve to the specific section of the water system. Check each tap or faucet for regular water flow, ensuring that the airlock is completely removed.
Step 5: Seek Professional Help if Needed
If you’ve tried all the above steps and the airlock persists, it’s advisable to seek professional help. A qualified plumber will have the necessary tools and expertise to diagnose and fix the issue. They may need to remove sections of the pipe or perform additional measures to eliminate the airlock effectively.
Removing an airlock from water pipes can be relatively simple with the right approach. By following these steps, you can restore the water flow in your pipes and enjoy a functioning plumbing system once again. Remember, if you’re unsure or uncomfortable with any step, it’s always best to consult a professional for assistance.
What is an airlock in water pipes and why it needs to be removed
An airlock occurs when pockets of air become trapped in your water pipes, preventing the smooth flow of water. This can lead to a decrease in water pressure or even a complete blockage. Airlocks can occur anywhere in your plumbing system, including in the hot water system, cold water lines, or even at individual fixtures like faucets and toilets.
Airlocks can be caused by a variety of factors such as changes in water pressure, faulty valves or fittings, or incomplete bleeding of air during the initial installation. They are more common in vertical pipes, as air naturally rises, but can still occur in horizontal sections as well.
It is essential to remove airlocks from your water pipes to restore the proper flow of water. If left untreated, airlocks can cause damage to your plumbing system and even result in expensive repairs.
There are several methods to remove an airlock, depending on its location and severity. One common method is to use a hosepipe to create a temporary reverse flow of water, forcing out the trapped air. Another method is to open all the taps in your house to create high water flow, which can dislodge the airlock.
In some cases, it may be necessary to vent the airlock manually. This can be done by opening the affected faucet or valve and allowing a small amount of water to trickle out until the air is expelled. It may take a few attempts before the airlock is fully removed. Additionally, ensuring proper bleeding of air during plumbing installations can help prevent future airlocks.
Regular maintenance and inspection of your plumbing system can help detect and remove airlocks in the early stages. If you are unsure about how to remove an airlock or if the issue persists, it is advisable to contact a professional plumber to avoid causing further damage.
Potential problems caused by airlocks
An airlock in a water pipe can cause a variety of problems that can disrupt the normal operation of plumbing systems. Some of the potential issues caused by airlocks include:
1. No water flow: One of the most obvious problems caused by airlocks is the lack of water flow. When an airlock occurs, it prevents the water from flowing freely through the pipes, leading to reduced or no water supply. This can be highly inconvenient, especially when you depend on a consistent water supply for daily activities such as showering, washing dishes, or doing laundry.
2. Reduced water pressure: Additionally, airlocks can result in reduced water pressure. As water tries to pass through the airlock, it encounters a blockage that restricts its movement. This can lead to weak or inadequate water pressure in your faucets, showers, and other water fixtures throughout your home.
3. Water hammer: Another potential problem associated with airlocks is the occurrence of water hammer. Water hammer refers to the loud banging or thumping noise that can be heard when a fast-moving column of water is suddenly stopped or redirected by an airlock. The sudden change in pressure against the airlock can create enough force to damage pipe fittings or joints, causing leaks or bursts.
4. Damage to appliances: Airlocks can also cause damage to appliances that rely on a consistent water supply, such as washing machines, dishwashers, and water heaters. Without proper water flow, these appliances may not operate efficiently or may even get damaged, leading to costly repairs or replacements.
5. Health risks: Finally, airlocks can potentially pose health risks if they occur in pipes that supply water for drinking or cooking purposes. Stagnant water trapped in an airlock can become a breeding ground for bacteria, potentially contaminating the water supply and posing health risks to individuals consuming it.
It’s important to address airlocks promptly to prevent these potential problems from occurring. By identifying and removing airlocks, you can ensure the smooth operation of your plumbing system and maintain a consistent water supply.
Methods to remove an airlock from water pipes
If you have water pipes impacted by an airlock, there are several methods you can try to get rid of it. Airlocks can restrict the flow of water and cause various problems, such as reduced water pressure. Below, we discuss some effective ways to remove an airlock from water pipes.
1. Bleeding the system
One of the most common methods to remove an airlock is by bleeding the system. To do this, you will need to locate the affected tap furthest away from the water source and open it. Then, gradually work your way back towards the water source, opening each tap on the system. This will allow the air to escape from the pipes, releasing the airlock.
2. Turning off the water supply
If bleeding the system does not solve your airlock issue, you can try turning off the water supply. Start by closing off the main water valve. Next, open all the taps throughout your house to allow any remaining water and air to escape. Once all the taps have been opened, turn the water supply back on. This method can help to clear any stubborn airlocks within the pipes.
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Bleeding the system | Open each tap starting from the furthest one to release the airlock |
| Turning off the water supply | Close main water valve, open all taps, then turn the water supply back on |
Remember, if you are unsure about handling airlocks or your water supply system, it is advisable to seek professional plumbing help. They will have the expertise and tools necessary to resolve the issue effectively and efficiently.
Bleeding the system
To remove an airlock from your water pipes, you will need to bleed the system. Bleeding is the process of releasing the trapped air from the pipes to allow a smooth flow of water. Here are the steps to bleed the system:
| 1. | Locate the air vent valve: |
| Find the highest point on your water system, where air is likely to accumulate. This could be an upstairs bathroom or utility room. | |
| Check for a small valve or key-operated slot on the radiator or at the top of a pipe leading to the radiator. | |
| If you can’t find an air vent valve, you may have to bleed the system from a radiator valve instead. | |
| 2. | Shut off the main water supply: |
| Before bleeding the system, ensure that the main water supply is shut off. This will prevent any accidental leaks or water damage. | |
| 3. | Prepare a container: |
| Place a towel or container beneath the air vent valve to catch any water that may leak during the bleeding process. | |
| 4. | Open the air vent valve: |
| Using a key or tool, slowly turn the air vent valve counterclockwise to open it. You will hear a hissing sound as the trapped air escapes from the system. | |
| Keep the valve open until a steady stream of water flows out of the vent. This indicates that all the air has been successfully expelled from the pipes. | |
| 5. | Close the air vent valve: |
| Once you have bled the system and water is flowing steadily, close the air vent valve by turning it clockwise. | |
| 6. | Restore the main water supply: |
| Finally, turn on the main water supply to allow water to fill the system. Check for any leaks or drips around the air vent valve before fully closing the system. |
By following these steps, you should be able to successfully remove an airlock from your water pipes and restore a proper flow of water.
Using a hose or tap to create back pressure
If you have a hose or a tap nearby, you can use it to create back pressure and remove the airlock from your water pipes. Here’s how to do it:
- First, locate the tap or hose nearest to the faucet or valve where you believe the airlock is located.
- Attach the end of the hose to the tap, or if using a stand-alone hose, position it in a way that it will obstruct the flow of water.
- Turn on the tap or open the valve gradually to allow water to flow into the hose.
- As the hose fills with water, you will start to create back pressure. This pressure can dislodge the airlock and allow water to flow freely again.
- You can also try turning the tap or valve off briefly and then back on again to help displace the airlock.
- Monitor the rest of your taps and fixtures while this process is underway to ensure that the airlock clears completely.
Important: Be cautious when handling water and operating taps to avoid injuries. Safety should be your top priority.
If this method doesn’t work, you may need to try other techniques like using a plunger or contacting a professional plumber for assistance.
Using a plunger to dislodge the airlock
If other methods have not been successful in removing the airlock from your water pipes, you may want to consider using a plunger. This can be an effective solution for dislodging the air and restoring the proper flow of water.
Here is how you can use a plunger to remove an airlock:
- First, locate the affected tap or faucet that is experiencing the airlock.
- Make sure there is enough water in the sink, bathtub, or basin to fully cover the plunger.
- Place the plunger over the drain or the spout of the affected tap, ensuring a tight seal against the surface.
- Press the plunger down firmly, creating suction between the plunger and the surface.
- Quickly pull the plunger up to create a vacuum effect and dislodge the airlock.
- Repeat the plunging motion several times to help remove the trapped air from the pipes.
- Once you have finished plunging, test the faucet or tap to ensure that the airlock has been successfully removed.
If the airlock persists, you may need to repeat the plunging process a few more times. If you are still unable to remove the airlock, it is recommended to consult a professional plumber for assistance.
Remember to exercise caution when using a plunger, as the force created during the plunging motion can cause water to splash back. It is advisable to wear protective clothing and eyewear to prevent any injury.
Calling a professional plumber
If you have tried all the DIY methods mentioned above and are still unable to remove the airlock from your water pipes, it may be time to call a professional plumber. While it might be tempting to try and fix the issue yourself, a professional plumber will have the expertise and specialized tools necessary to effectively remove the airlock and ensure the water flows freely again.
When calling a professional plumber, make sure to explain the situation accurately and provide any relevant information. This will help them understand the problem and come prepared with the right solutions. Additionally, ask about their availability and pricing to ensure that their services fit within your budget.
Remember, hiring a professional plumber can save you time and frustration. They will not only solve the immediate issue of the airlock but will also inspect your plumbing system to identify any underlying problems that might have caused the airlock. This proactive approach can prevent similar issues from occurring in the future, saving you money on potential repairs.
So, if your attempts to fix the airlock have been unsuccessful, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber. They have the knowledge and expertise to resolve the problem efficiently and effectively, ensuring your water supply remains uninterrupted.
Harrison Clayton
Meet Harrison Clayton, a distinguished author and home remodeling enthusiast whose expertise in the realm of renovation is second to none. With a passion for transforming houses into inviting homes, Harrison's writing at https://thehuts-eastbourne.co.uk/ brings a breath of fresh inspiration to the world of home improvement. Whether you're looking to revamp a small corner of your abode or embark on a complete home transformation, Harrison's articles provide the essential expertise and creative flair to turn your visions into reality. So, dive into the captivating world of home remodeling with Harrison Clayton and unlock the full potential of your living space with every word he writes.
