Are hammer arrestors required by code?
In the construction industry, the use of hammer arrestors is a topic of significant importance. These devices are designed to prevent damage to plumbing systems during the installation of water supply lines. The question of whether hammer arrestors are required by code is a crucial one for contractors, engineers, and homeowners alike. Understanding the code requirements and the purpose of hammer arrestors is essential for ensuring the safety and integrity of plumbing systems.
Hammer arrestors, also known as air chambers or air gaps, are devices that absorb the shock caused by water hammer, which is a sudden increase in water pressure. This increase in pressure can occur when a valve is suddenly closed or when a pump starts or stops. Without a hammer arrestor, the sudden pressure change can cause pipes to burst, valves to fail, and other costly damage to the plumbing system.
Code Requirements for Hammer Arrestors
The requirement for hammer arrestors varies depending on the jurisdiction and the specific code being referenced. In many areas, local building codes and plumbing codes dictate the use of hammer arrestors. For instance, the International Plumbing Code (IPC) and the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) both address the installation of hammer arrestors.
The IPC, for example, requires hammer arrestors to be installed in certain situations, such as when water supply lines are installed in attics, crawl spaces, or other areas where the potential for water hammer is high. The UPC has similar requirements, specifying that hammer arrestors must be installed in water supply systems where the potential for water hammer exists.
Purpose and Benefits of Hammer Arrestors
The primary purpose of hammer arrestors is to protect plumbing systems from the damaging effects of water hammer. By absorbing the shock caused by sudden pressure changes, hammer arrestors can prevent pipe bursts, valve failures, and other costly repairs. In addition to protecting the plumbing system, hammer arrestors also offer several other benefits:
1. Safety: By preventing pipe bursts and valve failures, hammer arrestors help to ensure the safety of occupants in the building.
2. Cost Savings: By reducing the risk of damage to the plumbing system, hammer arrestors can save homeowners and contractors money on repairs and maintenance.
3. Compliance: Installing hammer arrestors as required by code helps to ensure that the plumbing system meets all necessary safety standards.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the question of whether hammer arrestors are required by code is a critical one for anyone involved in the construction or maintenance of plumbing systems. While the specific requirements may vary by jurisdiction and code, it is generally the case that hammer arrestors are necessary in certain situations to protect plumbing systems from the damaging effects of water hammer. By understanding the code requirements and the benefits of hammer arrestors, contractors, engineers, and homeowners can ensure the safety, integrity, and longevity of their plumbing systems.
