Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is a water main surge suppressor?  
  2. How does a water main suppressor work? 
  3. Is there a chance of water stagnation within the vessel? 
  4. How is the water suppressor installed? 
  5. When will I notice a difference water hammer spikes? 
  6. Does water hammer cause all main breaks?  
  7. How many water main surge suppressors should I install?  
  8. Is it better to install in the system’s high or low areas?  
  9. Doesn’t my town’s water tower help with this problem? 
10. Is this new technology?   
11. Do I need to commit to a system-wide installation to be effective?  
12. What’s the cost of a water main surge suppressor?  
13. What is the return on investment?  

1. What is a water main surge suppressor?
A surge suppressor is an underground container attached to water pipes.

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2. How does a water main suppressor work?
The container is partially filled with water, and the remainder of space is air. When a pressure spike occurs, the air in the container absorbs the spike. See diagram.

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3. Is there a chance of water stagnation within the vessel?
No. Pressure fluctuations keep the water in constant motion.

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4. How is the water suppressor installed?
It is attached to the water pipe using either a flanged or mechanical joint. See photo gallery of installations.

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5. When will I notice a difference water hammer spikes?
Here’s an easy test. Before installation, measure water pressure spikes while operating a hydrant. Do the same after installation. The difference will be dramatic.

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6. Does water hammer cause all main breaks?
Calming the pressure spikes will reduce breaks. However, water main breaks still can occur from other factors such as shifting ground, pipe corrosion, and/or water temperature.

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7. How many water main surge suppressors should I install?
There is no exact formula. Many customers have several water surge suppressors in their inventory, and they install them as main breaks occur.

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8. Is it better to install in the system’s high or low areas?
Water pressures are higher in low areas, but it’s recommended to install wherever there is history of problems.

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9. Doesn’t my town’s water tower help with this problem?
Many people are unaware that elevated water towers serve as suppressors. However, they become ineffective when frozen.

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10. Is this new technology?
It’s very old technology. In fact, all home plumbing systems with suspended pipes have surge suppressors. It is a code requirement.

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11. Do I need to commit to a system-wide installation to be effective?
No. Typically, customers install suppressors in the most problematic areas and continue installations until the water hammer related breaks subside.

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12. What’s the cost of a water main surge suppressor?
Price varies depending on volume, shipping costs, etc., but for budgeting purposes, use $2,500 each.

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13. What is the return on investment?
One less water main break per year pays for three or more suppressors. This is truly a self-funded solution.

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