What is the primary purpose of a water hammer arrestor?

The primary purpose of a water hammer arrestor is indeed to reduce vibrations in the plumbing system. When water flow is abruptly stopped, as when a valve is closed quickly, it can create a shock wave that travels through the pipes, causing a loud banging noise known as "water hammer." This can lead to vibrations that may damage plumbing fixtures and cause wear over time.

A water hammer arrestor is designed to absorb these shock waves, effectively damping the vibrations and preventing the associated noise. It operates by using air-filled chambers that compress when the shock wave hits, thus softening the impact and minimizing the vibrations transmitted through the pipes. This not only protects the integrity of the plumbing but also enhances overall water flow stability by reducing the abrupt changes in pressure caused by water hammer.