How to get rid of air in water pipes?

If your faucets are sputtering, making banging noises, or producing inconsistent water flow, you may have air trapped in your pipes. This common plumbing issue can lead to low water pressure, noisy pipes, and potential damage to your plumbing system.

Homeowners in Los Angeles, San Diego, and Fresno often face this issue due to high water pressure fluctuations and pipe maintenance problems. A cheap plumber Denver can help, but you can try some simple fixes yourself first.

In this guide, we will cover:

• Common causes of air in water pipes
• Step-by-step methods to remove trapped air
• When to call a plumber for help

Common Causes of Air in Water Pipes

1. Recent Plumbing Work

If you recently repaired or replaced a pipe, air may have entered the system. This happens when pipes are drained and refilled without proper venting.

2. Water Supply Interruption

A temporary water shutdown from your utility provider can introduce air pockets into your pipes.

3. Hard Water Deposits

In cities like Fresno, Bakersfield, and Los Angeles, hard water deposits can build up inside pipes. This restricts water flow and creates turbulence, trapping air in the plumbing system.

4. Well Water Systems

If your home relies on a well, air can enter through leaks in the pump system or improper water level adjustments.

5. High Water Pressure

Excessively high water pressure can create air pockets inside your plumbing, leading to banging pipes, sputtering faucets, and uneven water flow.

How to Get Rid of Air in Water Pipes

Method 1: The Whole-House Flush

This is the most effective method to clear air from pipes.

Steps:

1. Turn Off the Main Water Supply – Find the shutoff valve near your water meter and turn it off.
2. Open All Faucets – Start with the lowest faucet in your home (such as a basement sink) and work your way up to the highest faucet.
3. Flush Toilets – Flush all toilets to help release trapped air.
4. Turn On the Main Water Supply – Slowly turn the main valve back on.
5. Let the Water Run – Allow all faucets to run for 10-15 minutes until the sputtering stops.

This should clear the trapped air and restore smooth water flow.

Method 2: Bleeding Individual Faucets

If the problem is isolated to one faucet, you can remove the air manually.

Steps:

1. Turn Off the Faucet – Ensure no water is flowing.
2. Turn Off the Shutoff Valve – If the faucet has a dedicated valve, turn it off.
3. Slowly Turn the Faucet Back On – Start with cold water, then turn on hot water.
4. Let Water Run for a Few Minutes – If air bubbles appear, allow the water to run until the sputtering stops.

Method 3: Adjusting Water Pressure

If high water pressure is causing air pockets, a pressure-reducing valve (PRV) can help.

Steps:

1. Check Your Water Pressure – Use a pressure gauge to measure PSI. The ideal range is 40-60 PSI.
2. Adjust the PRV – If your pressure is too high, use a wrench to adjust the valve.
3. Test Faucets – Turn on water to see if the sputtering has stopped.

When to Call a Plumber

If DIY methods do not work, it’s time to call a cheap plumber in Denver.

Signs You Need Professional Help:

• Persistent sputtering or banging noises
• Low water pressure despite clearing air
• Water discoloration (sign of rust or hard water buildup)
• Multiple drains experiencing air issues

Plumbers have specialized equipment to diagnose and fix the issue, ensuring your plumbing system operates smoothly.

Plumbing Problems in California Cities

Los Angeles & San Diego

• High water pressure fluctuations often cause air pockets.
• Many homes rely on old galvanized pipes, which can trap air and rust.

Fresno & Bakersfield

• Hard water deposits contribute to plumbing issues.
• Older plumbing systems often develop air locks.

Homeowners in these areas should regularly maintain their pipes to prevent air buildup.

Preventing Air in Water Pipes

1. Maintain Your Water Heater

• Flush your water heater once a year to prevent sediment buildup.

2. Install an Air Release Valve

• If you experience frequent air pockets, an air release valve can help regulate water flow.

3. Monitor Water Pressure

• Use a pressure gauge to keep levels between 40-60 PSI.

4. Prevent Hard Water Buildup

• Install a water softener if you live in areas with hard water, such as Los Angeles or Fresno.

Conclusion

Air in water pipes can cause sputtering faucets, banging noises, and uneven water pressure. The most common causes include recent plumbing work, high water pressure, and hard water deposits.

To remove air, try flushing your plumbing system, bleeding individual faucets, and adjusting water pressure. If the issue persists, call a cheap plumber in Denver for professional help.

For homeowners in California cities like Los Angeles, San Diego, and Fresno, air pockets in plumbing are common due to hard water toilet tank and high-pressure issues. Regular maintenance can prevent air buildup and keep your plumbing system in top shape.