If you’ve ever turned on a faucet and heard loud banging, gurgling, or sputtering sounds, you’re likely dealing with trapped air in your plumbing system. While it’s rarely dangerous, it’s annoying—and it can reduce water pressure or even damage fixtures over time. The good news? How do you get air out of plumbing pipes is a common question with simple, effective solutions most homeowners can handle themselves. Let’s walk through exactly what to do.
What Causes Air in Plumbing Pipes?
Air enters your plumbing system for several reasons:
After plumbing repairs (e.g., replacing a valve or pipe section)
Municipal water supply interruptions (e.g., city maintenance or outages)
Well system issues (common in rural homes)
Draining the system for winterizing
When air gets trapped, it creates pockets that disrupt water flow, leading to the telltale noises and inconsistent pressure. According to the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC), airlocks account for nearly 15% of residential plumbing service calls related to flow issues.
How Do You Get Air Out of Plumbing Pipes? Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this proven method to purge air from your entire home’s plumbing system. It takes 15–30 minutes and requires no special tools.
Step 1: Shut Off the Main Water Supply
Locate your main water shutoff valve (usually in the basement, garage, or near the water meter). Turn it clockwise until fully closed.
Step 2: Open All Faucets
Start with the highest faucet in your home (e.g., an upstairs bathroom sink), then open every other cold and hot water faucet—including showers, tubs, and outdoor spigots. Also flush all toilets once to release air from those lines.
💡 Pro Tip: Leave faucets fully open. Partial opening can trap air instead of releasing it.
Step 3: Turn the Main Water Supply Back On
Slowly reopen the main valve. You’ll hear gurgling and sputtering as air escapes through the open fixtures. This is normal!
Step 4: Wait and Close Faucets from Top to Bottom
Once water flows steadily and silently from the highest faucet (usually after 1–2 minutes), close it. Then move downward—closing each faucet only after the one above it runs clear. This ensures air is pushed out systematically.
Step 5: Check Water Pressure
Test pressure at a few fixtures. If it’s still weak, repeat the process or check for partial clogs. For homes with well systems, you may need to bleed the pressure tank—consult your pump manual or a professional.
Many DIYers make these errors, which can prolong the problem:
Only opening one faucet: Air hides in multiple zones—open them all.
Rushing the process: Turning the main valve too fast can cause water hammer (a loud “bang” that stresses pipes).
Ignoring hot water lines: Air often lingers in the water heater—always open hot taps too.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
While most air-in-pipe issues resolve with the steps above, seek expert help if:
Noises persist after 2 full cycles of bleeding
You notice discolored water or foul odors (signs of contamination)
Your home uses a complex manifold system (common in newer builds)
You have a recirculating hot water system
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that over 480,000 licensed plumbers work nationwide—many offer same-day service for under $150.
Air in Pipes vs. Water Hammer: Know the Difference
Gurgling or sputtering
Trapped air
Bleed all faucets
Loud “bang” when faucet shuts off
Water hammer (not air)
Install water hammer arrestor
Intermittent low pressure
Airlock or partial clog
Flush system + check aerators
Constant hissing
Leak or faulty valve
Inspect fixtures or call plumber
Understanding the root cause ensures you apply the right fix—saving time and money.
FAQ: How Do You Get Air Out of Plumbing Pipes?
Q1: How long does it take to get air out of plumbing pipes? A: Typically 10–30 minutes using the full-house bleeding method. Complex systems or well pumps may take longer.
Q2: Can air in pipes cause damage? A: Not directly—but persistent airlocks can lead to reduced water pressure, premature fixture wear, or water hammer, which stresses joints and valves over time.
Q3: Why do I keep getting air in my pipes? A: Frequent air buildup often points to a faulty pressure-reducing valve, leaky suction line (in well systems), or municipal supply issues. If it happens monthly, consult a plumber.
Q4: Does running the shower help remove air? A: Only partially. Showers alone won’t clear air from sinks, toilets, or the water heater. Open all fixtures for complete purging.
Q5: Can I prevent air from entering pipes? A: Not entirely—but you can minimize risk by avoiding sudden shutoffs, maintaining your pressure tank (if on a well), and installing air vents in problematic zones.
Q6: Is it safe to drink water after bleeding air from pipes? A: Yes. The water may look cloudy at first (due to dissolved air), but it clears within seconds and is perfectly safe—no contaminants are introduced.
Final Thoughts: Silence Your Pipes in Under 30 Minutes
Now you know exactly how to get air out of plumbing pipes—safely, affordably, and effectively. Not only will your faucets run smoothly, but you’ll also protect your plumbing system from long-term stress.
If this guide saved you a service call, share it with a friend or on social media! A quick post could help someone else stop those midnight pipe noises for good. 💧🔧
Got more plumbing questions? Drop them in the comments—we’re here to help!
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