Journeyman Electrician Makes Shocking Discovery: Can Hammer Arrestor Be Installed Upside Down?

A hammer arrestor is a critical safety device designed to protect piping systems from the damaging effects of water hammer. This sudden pressure surge can occur when a valve is closed too quickly or a pump is started or stopped abruptly. The hammer arrestor absorbs and dissipates this energy, preventing damage to pipes, valves, and other system components.

One common question regarding hammer arrestors is whether they can be installed upside down. The answer is a resounding NO. Installing a hammer arrestor upside down can severely compromise its effectiveness and may even lead to system failure.

Why Can’t Hammer Arrestors Be Installed Upside Down?

There are several reasons why installing a hammer arrestor upside down is a bad idea:

• Reduced Effectiveness: A hammer arrestor works by using a piston or diaphragm to absorb and dissipate the energy of water hammer. When installed upside down, the piston or diaphragm cannot operate correctly, significantly reducing the device’s effectiveness.
• Increased Risk of Leakage: Installing a hammer arrestor upside down can also increase the risk of leakage. This is because the seals and gaskets may not be properly seated, allowing water to escape.
• Potential for Damage: Installing a hammer arrestor upside down can put undue stress on the device, potentially leading to damage. This damage can shorten the lifespan of the hammer arrestor and increase the risk of system failure.

How to Properly Install a Hammer Arrestor

To ensure optimal performance and safety, it is crucial to install a hammer arrestor correctly. Here are the steps involved:

1. Choose the Right Hammer Arrestor: Select a hammer arrestor that is appropriately sized for your piping system. Consider factors such as the pipe diameter, flow rate, and maximum pressure.
2. Determine the Correct Orientation: Ensure that the hammer arrestor is installed with the arrow pointing in the direction of flow. This is typically indicated by an arrow or “flow” marking on the device.
3. Install the Hammer Arrestor: Install the hammer arrestor in a vertical position, with the inlet and outlet connections at the bottom and top, respectively. Use appropriate fittings and seals to ensure a leak-proof connection.
4. Test the Installation: Once the hammer arrestor is installed, test the system to ensure it is functioning correctly. This can be done by opening and closing valves quickly or starting and stopping pumps.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

In addition to installing the hammer arrestor upside down, there are several other common mistakes to avoid:

• Installing the Hammer Arrestor Too Close to a Valve: The hammer arrestor should be installed at least 10 pipe diameters away from any valve. This allows the device to absorb and dissipate the energy of water hammer effectively.
• Using the Wrong Size Hammer Arrestor: Selecting a hammer arrestor that is too small or too large for your piping system can compromise its effectiveness. Always refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations to determine the correct size.
• Not Maintaining the Hammer Arrestor: Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the continued effectiveness of the hammer arrestor. This includes inspecting the device for signs of wear or damage and replacing it if necessary.

Wrap-Up: The Importance of Proper Hammer Arrestor Installation

Installing a hammer arrestor upside down can have serious consequences, including reduced effectiveness, increased risk of leakage, and potential damage to the device. By following the proper installation procedures and avoiding common mistakes, you can ensure that your hammer arrestor is functioning correctly and protecting your piping system from the damaging effects of water hammer.

Top Questions Asked

1. What is the purpose of a hammer arrestor?

A hammer arrestor is designed to protect piping systems from the damaging effects of water hammer, a sudden pressure surge that can occur when a valve is closed too quickly or a pump is started or stopped abruptly.

2. Why is it important to install a hammer arrestor correctly?

Proper installation is crucial to ensure the hammer arrestor’s effectiveness in absorbing and dissipating the energy of water hammer. Installing the device upside down or making other installation errors can compromise its performance and increase the risk of system failure.

3. What are the consequences of installing a hammer arrestor upside down?

Installing a hammer arrestor upside down can lead to reduced effectiveness, increased risk of leakage, and potential damage to the device. It can also shorten the lifespan of the hammer arrestor and increase the risk of system failure.

4. How can I ensure that my hammer arrestor is installed correctly?

To ensure proper installation, follow these steps:

• Choose the right hammer arrestor for your piping system.
• Determine the correct orientation of the device (arrow pointing in the direction of flow).
• Install the hammer arrestor in a vertical position, with the inlet and outlet connections at the bottom and top, respectively.
• Test the installation to ensure the device is functioning correctly.

5. What are some common mistakes to avoid when installing a hammer arrestor?

Common mistakes to avoid include:

• Installing the hammer arrestor too close to a valve.
• Using the wrong size hammer arrestor.
• Not maintaining the hammer arrestor regularly.