How is water hammer typically addressed in a plumbing system?

Water hammer is a phenomenon that occurs in plumbing systems when there is a sudden change in water flow, leading to a shock wave that creates a loud banging noise in the pipes. This issue arises due to the inertia of the water moving in the pipes when a valve closes quickly or an appliance shuts off.

Installing air chambers or shock absorbers directly addresses this issue by providing a cushion of air that can absorb the shock wave created by the rapidly stopping water. Air chambers are typically vertical pipes that are installed near fixtures and contain air that compresses when the water flow stops suddenly. This compression dissipates the energy of the shock wave and helps minimize the noise and potential damage caused by water hammer. Shock absorbers serve a similar function and can be used in systems where air chambers may not be practical.

The other options do not effectively resolve the problem of water hammer. Installing additional plumbing fixtures does not address the underlying cause of the shock wave. Increasing pipe diameter could potentially increase water flow or pressure, but it won't eliminate the sudden changes in momentum that cause the water hammer. Reducing water temperature does not have any direct effect on the mechanical impact caused by rapid water movement, which is the central issue in water hammer situations.