July 19, 2010
Dear Ken: When the sprinkler system shuts off, we notice a big clunk in the water heater. What do you think is going on? Doug
It may sound like it's coming from the tank, but it's probably a system-wide shock wave that pulses through the pipes when the sprinkler valve slams shut. Do you have two pressure regulators? They are essential, and in most places, required by the local water company. One protects the inside house piping and is set at, say, 50 pounds per square inch (PSI), while the separate regulator feeding the sprinkler system is usually higher-mine, for example, is adjusted to 75- 80 PSI. The regulators will help stabilize the system and may eliminate the shock waves that are causing that clunking.
There are also water hammer arresting gadgets that can help. They work on a principle similar to the wheel struts and shocks in your car. A plumber can help with this, since they must go in very specific places in the hot and cold water piping. You're right to be concerned about the noise, since the shock waves can cause indoor leaks and, possibly, flooding.
Dear Ken: I live in the country and so have lots of minerals in the water. I've just installed the third water heater in my house over a ten year period. How can I make them last longer? Ray
You're probably falling victim to galvanic action. Dissimilar metals between the tank and the pipes can initiate tiny currents that flow back and forth and end up eating away at the inside water heater tank. Do you check your anode rod annually? This is a chunk of metal that sacrifices itself (dissolves) so the inside tank doesn't have to. You can access it by unscrewing a bolt on top of the tank. In your case, you may have to replace it every couple of years. Also, how are the pipes connected to the heater? There should be dielectric unions, which include a rubber gasket that inhibits current flow in the system. They are gray steel (not copper or brass-colored) fittings that connect the pipes to the tank.
Sometimes the ground wires in the electrical system get disconnected or are non-existent; an electrician can check them. Finally, do you have a water softener? It will not only help protect the tank, but will also make cleaning the dishes, clothes and you much easier and more pleasant.
Dear Ken: I have a noisy side street. Would a triple pane window instead of a double help with the noise? Charles
It might help a little, but the expense and hassle may not be worth it. The new window and the installation charges could cost $1000 or so, depending on its size. A set of insulated drapes or cellular shades would also help ameliorate the noise, plus give you the extra benefit of additional energy savings, at a much lower cost and with a lot less disruption.
Dear Ken: I want to insulate my garage. What do you think of Styrofoam sheets instead of regular insulation bats? What about the old garage door? Are sheets OK for it ? Aaron
It's not a good idea to keep Styrofoam exposed. In case of a fire, it can smolder and char, creating extra fumes and smoke. Use the traditional batts on the walls; you can now find encapsulated versions, which are entirely wrapped in plastic. That eliminates the exposure--and the itching! Use R-11 or R-13 pieces stapled in place. In the attic you could lay 6- or 9-inch bats perpendicular to the trusses. As for your old garage door, wrap your foam sheets in heavy duty plastic before you glue them on with construction adhesive. A better idea, of course, is to install a new insulated, steel door.
