How do you remove an airlock from water pipes?

Is your water flow inconsistent or are you hearing strange banging noises from your pipes? These could be signs of an airlock in your plumbing system. While airlocks are common, they can be disruptive. The good news is that you don’t always need a professional to fix the problem. In this article, we’ll walk you through simple steps to remove an airlock and get your water flowing smoothly again.

An airlock in water pipes occurs when air gets trapped in the plumbing system, blocking the normal flow of water. This trapped air can create a build-up of pressure that disrupts the consistent movement of water through the pipes.

An airlock can manifest in several ways. Here are the most common symptoms to look out for:

• Low or no water flow: You may notice that water isn’t flowing from your taps or, if it does, it’s coming out in a weak stream or not at all.

• Gurgling sounds: Air trapped in the pipes can cause odd sounds, like gurgling or sputtering, as water attempts to flow through.

• Uneven water pressure: If you have an airlock, the water pressure in certain areas of the plumbing system may drop significantly, resulting in weak water flow or pressure.

• Banging noises: Air moving through the pipes can cause banging or thumping noises when it hits certain parts of the plumbing system.

• Cold spots on radiators: In heating systems, an airlock can prevent the hot water from circulating correctly, leading to cold spots on radiators or no water coming out of taps connected to the hot water supply.

Airlocks in water pipes can occur due to poor installation, such as incorrect angles or lack of venting, which allows air to collect. Leaks in the plumbing system can also let air in, even from small leaks. Sudden changes in water pressure, like after maintenance, can trap air in pipes, disrupting water flow. Additionally, if pipes are drained and refilled quickly or without proper venting, trapped air can cause an airlock.

Removing an airlock from water pipes is a relatively simple process that can be done with some basic steps. Here’s how to do it:

1. Turn off the water supply - The first step in clearing an airlock is to turn off the main water supply. This prevents water from flowing further into the system while you work to release the trapped air.

2. Locate the affected pipe - The next step is to locate the section of the plumbing system that is affected by the airlock. Airlocks typically form at the highest point in the system, so check for the most distant tap or the highest part of your water pipes.

3. Open taps - If the airlock is affecting a tap or radiator, open the affected tap slightly to allow water to flow and push the trapped air out. Start with the lowest tap in your home and work your way up to ensure the air moves through the system properly.

4. Bleed radiators - If you have an airlock in your heating system, you’ll need to bleed the radiators. This is done by turning the valve at the top of each radiator to release trapped air, which will allow water to circulate properly again.

5. Use a hose for hot and cold taps - If the airlock affects a hot water system, you can use a hose to connect the hot and cold taps to force the air out. This method can help push water through the system, clearing the airlock as it goes.

6. Repeat if necessary - Sometimes, the airlock may not clear after one attempt. If you don’t see an immediate improvement, repeat the process by turning the water supply off again, locating the airlock, and bleeding the pipes. It might take a few tries to completely remove the airlock and restore proper water flow.

If the above methods don’t resolve the issue, or if the airlock persists, it may be time to hire a plumber for a more thorough inspection. Professional plumbers have the experience and tools to safely diagnose and fix persistent airlocks. Additionally, if you're unsure about performing the steps yourself or feel uncomfortable working with your plumbing system, it’s always best to seek expert assistance.