Introduction
Greetings, and welcome to our guide on how to get air out of water lines. Whether you’re a homeowner or a professional plumber, dealing with air in your water lines can be a frustration that can lead to reduced water pressure, sputtering faucets, and even damage to your plumbing system.
But don’t worry – in this guide, we’ll show you everything you need to know to get air out of your water lines and restore your plumbing system to its optimal performance.
What Causes Air In Water Lines?
Before we dive into the solutions, let’s first understand what causes air in water lines. The most common causes include:
| Cause | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Water Main Breaks | When there’s a water main break, air can enter the water line and cause disruptions in your plumbing system. |
| High Water Demand | During high water demand times, such as in the morning or evening, air can enter the water line due to the increased flow rate. |
| Hot Water Heater Malfunction | When the hot water heater isn’t working correctly, it can cause air to enter the water lines. |
| Damaged Pipes | Broken or damaged pipes can cause air to enter the water lines. |
Now that we’ve identified the causes let’s move on to the solutions to get air out of water lines.
How to Get Air Out of Water Lines
Bleed Valves
One of the simplest ways to get air out of water lines is to use a bleed valve. These valves are typically located near your water meter or main shut-off valve and allow you to release any trapped air from your plumbing system. Here’s how to use them:
- Turn off all faucets and appliances that use water.
- Locate the bleed valve near your water meter or main shut-off valve.
- Using a wrench, slowly turn the valve counterclockwise to release any trapped air.
- Once water starts to flow out of the valve, close it and turn on your faucets and appliances one by one to ensure that all the air is out of your system.
Drain Your Water System
If the above method doesn’t work, you can also try draining your entire water system to get rid of the air. Here’s how:
- Turn off the main shut-off valve to your water system.
- Open all the faucets and appliances that use water to drain all the water from your system.
- Once all the water has drained, close all the faucets and appliances.
- Slowly turn on the main shut-off valve to allow water back into your system.
- Turn on each faucet and appliance one by one to ensure that all the air is out of your system.
Get a Professional Plumbing Service
If the above solutions don’t work, it’s time to call in a professional plumbing service. A professional plumber has the expertise and equipment needed to identify the root cause of the air in your water lines and provide an effective solution.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
The advantages of getting air out of your water lines include:
- Increased water pressure
- Improved water flow
- Reduced risk of damage to your plumbing system
Disadvantages
The disadvantages of getting air out of your water lines include:
- Difficulty for DIYers
- May require professional plumbing service in some cases
- Cost of repair or replacement of damaged plumbing parts
FAQs
1. Can I use a plunger to get air out of my water lines?
No, a plunger is not an effective method for removing air from your water lines.
2. Should I be concerned if there’s air in my water lines?
Yes, air in your water lines can cause reduced water pressure and damage to your plumbing system.
3. How often should I check for air in my water lines?
You should check for air in your water lines regularly, especially after any repairs or maintenance on your plumbing system.
4. What should I do if I can’t get the air out of my water lines?
If you’re unable to remove the air from your water lines, it’s time to call in a professional plumbing service.
5. Can I prevent air from entering my water lines?
Yes, regular maintenance and inspection of your plumbing system can help prevent air from entering your water lines.
6. How long does it take to get air out of water lines?
The time it takes to get air out of water lines depends on the severity of the problem. It can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours.
7. Can I use a hairdryer to get air out of my water lines?
No, using a hairdryer is not an effective method for removing air from your water lines and can be dangerous.
8. Why is there air in my hot water lines?
Air in your hot water lines can be caused by a malfunctioning hot water heater or damaged pipes.
9. What should I do if there’s no water coming out of my faucets?
If there’s no water coming out of your faucets, it could be a sign of a severe problem with your plumbing system, and it’s time to call a professional plumbing service.
10. How can I tell if there’s air in my water lines?
You may notice sputtering or spurting water from your faucets, reduced water pressure, or strange noises coming from your plumbing system.
11. Can air in my water lines cause health problems?
No, air in your water lines is typically not harmful to your health, but it can cause damage to your plumbing system.
12. Can I use a garden hose to flush out air in my water lines?
No, using a garden hose is not an effective method for removing air from your water lines.
13. Will getting air out of my water lines increase my water bill?
No, getting air out of your water lines will not increase your water bill.
Conclusion
In conclusion, getting air out of your water lines is essential to maintaining a healthy and functioning plumbing system. Whether you choose to use a bleed valve, drain your water system, or call in a professional plumbing service, it’s crucial to take action if you notice any signs of air in your water lines.
We hope this guide has been helpful in providing you with comprehensive information on how to get air out of water lines and the advantages and disadvantages of doing so. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional plumbing service if you need further assistance.
Closing Disclaimer
While we have made every effort to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information provided in this guide, we cannot guarantee its completeness or suitability for your specific needs. The information provided is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional before making any changes to your plumbing system.