How to Get Air Out of Plumbing Pipes – Fast & Easy Fix

Is your faucet sputtering, your shower making strange gurgling noises, or your pipes banging like a drum every time you turn on the water? You’re likely dealing with air trapped in your plumbing pipes—a common but easily fixable issue. Knowing how to get air out of plumbing pipes can save you from unnecessary plumbing bills and restore smooth water flow throughout your home. Let’s walk through the safest, most effective methods to clear airlocks—no plumber required.

Why Does Air Get Trapped in Plumbing Pipes?

Air enters your plumbing system for several reasons:

• After shutting off the main water supply (e.g., during repairs or vacations)
• When new pipes are installed
• Due to sudden pressure changes or leaks
• From emptying a water heater or flushing the system

According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI), airlocks—pockets of trapped air that block water flow—are among the top five causes of inconsistent water pressure in residential systems. While not dangerous, they can reduce efficiency, damage fixtures over time, and create annoying noises.

💡 Fun Fact: Trapped air doesn’t mix with water—it rises to the highest point in your pipe system, often near faucets or showerheads, causing sputtering and reduced flow.

How to Get Air Out of Plumbing Pipes: Step-by-Step Guide

✅ Step 1: Turn Off the Main Water Supply

Locate your home’s main water shut-off valve (usually in the basement, garage, or near the water meter). Turn it clockwise to shut off incoming water. This prevents new air from entering during the process.

✅ Step 2: Open All Faucets (Start from the Top)

Begin with the highest faucet in your house (often an upstairs bathroom sink or shower), then work your way down to the lowest (like a basement utility sink). Open both hot and cold handles fully.

📌 Why start from the top? Gravity helps air escape upward. Opening the highest fixtures first gives trapped air a clear exit path.

✅ Step 3: Flush Toilets & Open Outdoor Spigots

Don’t forget secondary outlets:

• Flush all toilets (this drains air from tank lines)
• Open outdoor hose bibs or irrigation valves
• If you have a washing machine or dishwasher, run a quick rinse cycle (with water off, just to open solenoid valves)

✅ Step 4: Turn the Main Water Supply Back On

Slowly turn the main valve counterclockwise to restore water flow. You’ll hear gurgling or hissing—that’s the air escaping! Let water run from all faucets until it flows smoothly and steadily (usually 1–3 minutes per fixture).

✅ Step 5: Close Faucets from Bottom to Top

Once water runs clear:

1. Close the lowest faucet first
2. Work your way upward
   This maintains positive pressure and prevents new air pockets from forming.

⏱️ Pro Tip: Use at least 2 liters of water per faucet to ensure complete air clearance. Water temperature doesn’t matter—room temp (20–25°C / 68–77°F) is fine.

Signs You’ve Successfully Removed Air from Pipes

✅ No more knocking or hammering sounds
✅ Consistent water pressure at all fixtures
✅ Smooth, bubble-free flow from taps
✅ Toilets refill quickly and quietly

If problems persist after this process, you may have a partial blockage or leak—consult a licensed plumber.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When to Call a Professional Plumber

While most airlocks resolve with the DIY method above, seek professional help if:

• You hear loud banging that continues after bleeding pipes
• Water pressure remains low in only one area
• You suspect a leak (damp walls, mold, or rising water bills)
• Your home uses a well system (different air-removal protocols apply)

For complex systems, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends annual plumbing inspections to maintain efficiency and prevent air-related issues.

🔗 For more on how plumbing systems work, see the Wikipedia page on domestic water systems .

FAQ: How to Get Air Out of Plumbing Pipes

Q1: How long does it take to remove air from plumbing pipes?

A: Typically 5–15 minutes, depending on your home’s size and number of fixtures. Larger homes or those with multiple stories may take slightly longer.

Q2: Can trapped air damage pipes?

A: Not directly, but water hammer (caused by air + sudden valve closure) can stress joints and fittings over time. Persistent banging warrants investigation.

Q3: Why do I keep getting air in my pipes?

A: Frequent airlocks may indicate a failing pressure-reducing valve, a leaky suction line (in well systems), or repeated main shutoffs. Check for hidden leaks or consult a plumber.

Q4: Does this method work for hot water heaters?

A: Yes! Air often collects in heater lines. When bleeding pipes, open the hot side of every faucet to clear air from the tank and recirculation lines.

Q5: Can I use a compressor to blow air out?

A: Not recommended for standard homes. Compressed air can damage seals, valves, or older pipes. Stick to the safe, gravity-and-water method outlined above.

Q6: What if only one faucet has air?

A: Try running that faucet for 1–2 minutes with others closed. If it persists, the aerator may be clogged—unscrew and clean it with vinegar.

Conclusion

Now you know how to get air out of plumbing pipes safely, quickly, and effectively—no tools or expertise required. This simple maintenance task prevents noise, restores water pressure, and extends the life of your plumbing system. Best of all, it takes less than 15 minutes!

🔧 Proactive Tip: Bleed your pipes after any plumbing work or prolonged water shutoff to avoid future airlocks.

If this guide saved you a plumbing bill or a sleepless night from pipe banging, share it with a friend or on social media! 💧
Your DIY win could be their next home hack.

Stay flowing, stay quiet—and never let air ruin your shower again.