Water Hammer Arrestor in City Of London

County: London

A water hammer arrestor is a simple but effective plumbing device designed to stop a common and annoying issue called water hammer. Water hammer happens when water flowing through pipes suddenly stops or changes direction, causing a loud thumping or banging noise. This can be unsettling and, over time, may damage your pipes or fixtures. You might need a water hammer arrestor if you hear these noises, especially when you turn off taps quickly or when dishwashers and washing machines cycle. Installing one helps protect your plumbing system, reduces noise, and can prevent leaks or pipe damage in the long run.

Open full page →

⭐ Introduction

You might need a water hammer arrestor if you hear these noises, especially when you turn off taps quickly or when dishwashers and washing machines cycle. Installing one helps protect your plumbing system, reduces noise, and can prevent leaks or pipe damage in the long run.

🔧 What the job involves

A water hammer arrestor acts like a shock absorber for your plumbing. It is usually a small cylinder filled with air or a spring mechanism that cushions the sudden surge of water, preventing the pipes from banging.

The plumber will identify where the water hammer is occurring, often near washing machines, dishwashers, or quick-closing taps, then fit the arrestor close to the source of the issue. The device connects directly to your pipework, usually inline or at an accessible valve.

Most arrests are straightforward installations, but in some cases, pipes may need adapting or rerouting for ideal placement. The work is usually part of your domestic cold or hot water system and does not involve gas appliances, so Gas Safe registration is not required, but good plumbing practice and compliance with building regulations still apply.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

Initial enquiry
Contact a local plumber to describe the noise issue and ask about water hammer arrestors.
Site survey and assessment
The plumber visits your home to hear the noise, check your plumbing layout, and advise whether an arrestor will solve the problem.
Quotation
You receive a clear, written estimate covering parts, labour, and any extra work.
Booking the job
Agree a convenient date and time for the work.
Day of works
The plumber isolates the relevant water supply, fits the arrestor, and tests the system to confirm the banging has stopped.
Site tidy and check
The plumber cleans up any mess, explains the work done, and gives advice on maintenance.
Completion paperwork
You receive a receipt or work report; certification is not usually required unless part of a larger project involving building regulations.

💷 Main costs to expect

Labour: Typically one to two hours, charged at around £40–£60 per hour for a qualified plumber.
Materials/parts: Water hammer arrestors usually cost between £20 and £60 each depending on size and type.
Extras: If pipework needs adapting or new valves fitting, this might add £30–£80.
Disposal: Minimal, typically included in labour cost.
Certification: No mandatory certificate usually needed, unless integrated into a regulated building project.

Example:

Labour (1.5 hours at £50) = £75
Arrestor unit = £40
Minor pipe adaption = £50
Total = Approximately £165 + VAT (if applicable)

📊 What affects the price

Access to the problematic pipework (under floors, in walls, or cupboards).
Complexity of your plumbing system and how much rerouting or extra pipework is needed.
Whether you need multiple arrestors for several appliances.
Any additional repairs identified during work (e.g., pipe damage).
Location, with prices slightly higher in London and the South East.
How urgently you need the work done; emergency call-outs cost more.

⏱ How long does it take?

Straight swap or basic install: Around 1 to 2 hours. Typical when arrestor fits neatly onto existing pipework near appliances.
Complex installations: 2 to 4 hours or more. If new pipe runs or access panels must be made, or dealing with old pipe corrosion/replacements.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

While it might sound simple to fit a water hammer arrestor yourself, there are risks. Working on your plumbing means turning off water supplies correctly, avoiding leaks, and fitting devices in the right place to actually solve the problem.

UK Building Regulations don’t require certification for water hammer arrestor installation alone, but poor installation could cause further problems, like leaks or water damage.

If you’re confident and experienced with plumbing, minor installations might be manageable using accessible pipes with basic tools. However, most homeowners will benefit from hiring a qualified plumber to ensure a safe, compliant, and effective fix.

💰 Typical UK price range

You can expect to pay somewhere between £120 and £250 including labour and materials for a straightforward water hammer arrestor installation. Prices are approximate and can vary by region and job complexity.

Note: VAT may apply on these costs if the plumber is VAT registered.

✅ Handy tips before you start

Prepare by noting exactly when and where the noise happens, as this helps the plumber diagnose the issue.
Ensure easy access to the pipes or appliances involved by clearing cupboards or moving furniture beforehand.
Ask your plumber about the brand and type of arrestor they will fit and if it comes with a manufacturer’s warranty.
Keep all paperwork, receipts, and any advice notes for future reference, especially if you sell your home.
If the issue persists after installation, contact your plumber promptly to check the system.
Regular maintenance on your appliances and plumbing can reduce water hammer risk over time.

By understanding what to expect and how a water hammer arrestor works, you’ll be better equipped to tackle those noisy pipes confidently and protect your plumbing for years to come.

Checkatrade Which? Trusted Traders TrustATrader MyBuilder Rated People

Other plumbers projects in City Of London

Air Duct Cleaning
Air Duct Cleaning by a vetted local pro.
Backwater Valve
Backwater Valve by a vetted local pro.
Bar Sink
Bar Sink by a vetted local pro.
Bidet Toilet Installation
Bidet Toilet Installation by a vetted local pro.
Cast Iron Waste Pipe Replacement
Cast Iron Waste Pipe Replacement by a vetted local pro.
Circulator Pump Replacement
Circulator Pump Replacement by a vetted local pro.
Clear blockage in Saniflo / macerator
Clear blockage in Saniflo / macerator by a vetted local pro.
Clear blockage in drain (including the u-bend or plughole)
Clear blockage in drain (including the u-bend or plughole) by a vetted local pro.
Digital Shower
Digital Shower by a vetted local pro.
Disconnect a plumbed-in appliance
Disconnect a plumbed-in appliance by a vetted local pro.
Dishwasher Installation
Dishwasher Installation by a vetted local pro.
Do one hour’s plumbing work
Do one hour’s plumbing work by a vetted local pro.
Dog Shower Station
Dog Shower Station by a vetted local pro.
Drain Pipe Repair
Drain Pipe Repair by a vetted local pro.
Drain Survey
Drain Survey by a vetted local pro.
Drain Trap
Drain Trap by a vetted local pro.
Dual Flush Toilet
Dual Flush Toilet by a vetted local pro.
Extend or modify pipework and connect an appliance to it
Extend or modify pipework and connect an appliance to it by a vetted local pro.
Fix High Water Pressure
Fixing High Water Pressure by a vetted local pro.
Fix Low Water Pressure
Fixing Low Water Pressure by a vetted local pro.
Fix a leak
Fix a leak by a vetted local pro.
Fix a leaking toilet
Fix a leaking toilet by a vetted local pro.
Fix a shower pump
Fix a shower pump by a vetted local pro.
Fix a shower which isn’t working correctly
Fix a shower which isn’t working correctly by a vetted local pro.
Fix a tap which isn’t working properly
Fix a tap which isn’t working properly by a vetted local pro.
Fix toilet flush problems
Fix toilet flush problems by a vetted local pro.
Garbage disposal Installation
Garbage disposal Installation by a vetted local pro.
Greywater System
Greywater System by a vetted local pro.
Heated Towel Rail Installation
Heated Towel Rail Installation by a vetted local pro.
Ice Maker
Ice Maker by a vetted local pro.
Install Grohe Boiling Hot or other filtered/boiling water tap
Install Grohe Boiling Hot or other filtered/boiling water tap by a vetted local pro.
Install a Shower Tray
Installing a Shower Tray by a vetted local pro.
Install a Steam Shower
Installing a Steam Shower by a vetted local pro.
Install a new outside tap
Install a new outside tap by a vetted local pro.
Japanese Toilet
Japanese Toilet by a vetted local pro.
Kitchen Tap Aerator
Kitchen Tap Aerator by a vetted local pro.
Macerator Toilet Installation
Macerator Toilet Installation by a vetted local pro.
Move pipework
Move pipework by a vetted local pro.
Oil Tank Installation
Oil Tank Installation by a vetted local pro.
Outdoor Drinking Fountains
Outdoor Drinking Fountains by a vetted local pro.
Outdoor Faucet
Outdoor Faucet by a vetted local pro.
Outdoor Kitchen Sink
Outdoor Kitchen Sink by a vetted local pro.
Outdoor Shower
Outdoor Shower by a vetted local pro.
Outdoor Tap Replacement
Outdoor Tap Replacement by a vetted local pro.
Plumb in an appliance (to existing pipework)
Plumb in an appliance (to existing pipework) by a vetted local pro.
Plumbing
Plumbing by a vetted local pro.
Power Flush
Power Flush by a vetted local pro.
Pressure Reducing Valve
Pressure Reducing Valve by a vetted local pro.
Radiator Replacement
Radiator Replacement by a vetted local pro.
Rainwater Harvesting System
Rainwater Harvesting System by a vetted local pro.
Repair Sewer Lines
Repairing Sewer Lines by a vetted local pro.
Repair a Burst Pipe
Repairing a Burst Pipe by a vetted local pro.
Repair a Collapsed Drain
Repairing a Collapsed Drain by a vetted local pro.
Repair a Garbage Disposal
Repairing a Garbage Disposal by a vetted local pro.
Repair a Sump Pump
Repairing a Sump Pump by a vetted local pro.
Replace a bath
Replace a bath by a vetted local pro.
Replace a shower (like for like)
Replace a shower (like for like) by a vetted local pro.
Replace a shower pump
Replace a shower pump by a vetted local pro.
Replace a sink
Replace a sink by a vetted local pro.
Replace a tap
Replace a tap by a vetted local pro.
Replace a toilet
Replace a toilet by a vetted local pro.
Replacing a Backwater
Replacing a Backwater by a vetted local pro.
Reverse Osmosis System
Reverse Osmosis System by a vetted local pro.
Septic Tank Repair
Septic Tank Repair by a vetted local pro.
Slow Draining Sink Repair
Slow Draining Sink Repair by a vetted local pro.
Smart Tap
Smart Tap by a vetted local pro.
Solar Hot Water System
Solar Hot Water System by a vetted local pro.
Thermostatic Shower Installation
Thermostatic Shower Installation by a vetted local pro.
Toilet Flange
Toilet Flange by a vetted local pro.
Toilet Gasket
Toilet Gasket by a vetted local pro.
Toilet Syphon Replacement
Toilet Syphon Replacement by a vetted local pro.
Unblock a toilet
Unblock a toilet by a vetted local pro.
Utility Sink
Utility Sink by a vetted local pro.
Washing Machine Repair
Washing Machine Repair by a vetted local pro.
Water Flow Meter
Water Flow Meter by a vetted local pro.
Water Lines
Water Lines by a vetted local pro.
Water Pressure Gauge
Water Pressure Gauge by a vetted local pro.
Water Pressure Regulator
Water Pressure Regulator by a vetted local pro.
Water Pump
Water Pump by a vetted local pro.
Water Softeners
Water Softeners by a vetted local pro.
Water Treatment
Water Treatment by a vetted local pro.
Well Repair
Well Repair by a vetted local pro.
Whole House Water Filter
Whole House Water Filter by a vetted local pro.
Whole House Water Shutoff Valve
Whole House Water Shutoff Valve by a vetted local pro.

Are you a Tradesperson or business owner?

Grow your business with Fixington — tools and services for electricians, plumbers and heating engineers.

1) Fixington app

Estimate, schedule and invoice on the go with our iPhone app and web tools.

More info Buy

2) Fixdd job management

Manage jobs from quote to invoice, take card payments, and keep customers updated.

Visit fixdd.com

3) Get listed on Fixington

Appear where customers are searching. Showcase reviews and get discovered locally.

See all services for tradespeople