How to Get Air Out of Your Plumbing Pipes Fast & Safely

If you’ve ever turned on a faucet and heard loud banging, sputtering, or hissing sounds, you’re likely dealing with air trapped in your plumbing pipes. Not only is it annoying, but it can also reduce water pressure and, in rare cases, damage your system over time. The good news? How to get air out of your plumbing pipes is a straightforward DIY task that most homeowners can handle in under 30 minutes—no plumber required. Let’s walk you through the safest, most effective methods.

Why Does Air Get Trapped in Plumbing Pipes?

Air enters your plumbing system for several common reasons:

• After plumbing repairs or upgrades (e.g., installing a new water heater or replacing a section of pipe).
• Municipal water supply interruptions (like when your city shuts off water for maintenance).
• Well system issues, where air naturally enters the pump or pressure tank.
• Leaks or faulty valves that allow air to seep in.

According to the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), trapped air is one of the top three causes of “water hammer” — that loud knocking noise when you shut off a faucet suddenly.

💡 Fun Fact: While small amounts of air are normal, large pockets can reduce water pressure by up to 30%, per EPA water efficiency guidelines.

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

Follow these steps to safely and effectively purge air from your entire plumbing system. This method works for both city water and well water homes.

Step 1: Turn Off the Main Water Supply

Locate your home’s main shutoff valve (usually in the basement, garage, or near the water meter). Turn it clockwise until it stops. This prevents new water—and more air—from entering the system during the process.

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

Begin with the highest faucet in your home (often an upstairs bathroom sink or shower). Then work your way down to the lowest (like a basement utility sink or outdoor spigot).

• Open both hot and cold handles fully.
• Also flush all toilets and open bathtub/shower valves.
• Don’t forget laundry and dishwasher supply lines if accessible.

✅ Pro Tip: Leave all fixtures open—this creates a clear path for air to escape as water refills the system.

Step 3: Turn the Main Water Supply Back On

Slowly turn the main valve counterclockwise to restore water flow. You’ll hear gurgling or sputtering—that’s the air escaping! Let water run until it flows smoothly and consistently from every fixture.

• Start timing once water flows: most homes need 2–5 minutes per floor.
• For larger homes (3+ floors), allow up to 10–15 minutes total.

Step 4: Close Faucets from Bottom to Top

Once water runs clear and steady:

1. Close the lowest faucet first (e.g., basement or outdoor spigot).
2. Work your way upward, closing each fixture.
3. End with the highest faucet.

This sequence helps push remaining air out through the top, preventing re-trapping.

Alternative Methods (For Stubborn Air Pockets)

Method 1: Bleed Radiators (If You Have Hydronic Heating)

If your home uses hot water radiators, air can accumulate there too. Use a radiator key to open the bleed valve until water drips out—this releases trapped air without affecting plumbing.

Method 2: Check Your Water Heater

Air can get stuck in the hot water line. Attach a hose to the drain valve at the base of your water heater and run it to a floor drain. Open the valve for 30–60 seconds to flush air. Learn more about water heater maintenance on Wikipedia .

⚠️ Warning: Never open the pressure relief valve to “bleed” air—it’s a safety device, not a vent!

Signs You’ve Successfully Removed the Air

✅ No more knocking, banging, or sputtering sounds
✅ Consistent water pressure at all fixtures
✅ Toilets refill smoothly without gurgling
✅ Hot water returns quickly (no cold bursts)

If problems persist after 24 hours, you may have a leak, failing pressure regulator, or well system issue—consult a licensed plumber.

Air in Pipes vs. Water Hammer: What’s the Difference?

Many confuse air noise with water hammer, but they’re distinct:

While removing air often reduces hammering, chronic water hammer usually requires mechanical fixes like arrestors or pressure-reducing valves.

Preventing Air Buildup in the Future

• After any plumbing work, always flush the system using the method above.
• Install an air eliminator valve (cost: $20–$50) near your main line if you have recurring issues.
• Maintain your well system annually—check the pressure tank and foot valve.
• Avoid rapid valve closures (e.g., don’t slam faucet handles shut).

FAQ: How to Get Air Out of Your Plumbing Pipes

Q1: Can air in pipes cause damage?

A: Occasional air won’t harm pipes, but persistent air combined with water hammer can loosen joints or crack fittings over time. It’s best to address it promptly.

Q2: How long does it take to get air out of plumbing?

A: Most homes clear air in 5–15 minutes using the full-flush method. Larger or complex systems (e.g., multi-story homes with well water) may take up to 30 minutes.

Q3: Why is only my hot water sputtering?

A: Air is likely trapped in the hot water line or water heater. Flush the heater’s drain valve briefly or run hot water at all fixtures for 3–5 minutes.

Q4: Do I need special tools?

A: No—just access to your main shutoff valve and faucets. A bucket or towel helps catch drips, but that’s it.

Q5: Will this work for PEX, copper, and PVC pipes?

A: Yes! The method works for all residential pipe materials because it relies on water flow, not pipe type.

Q6: What if the noise continues after flushing?

A: You may have a partial blockage, failing pressure regulator, or leak. If flushing doesn’t help within 24 hours, call a plumber for diagnostics.

Conclusion

Now you know exactly how to get air out of your plumbing pipes—safely, affordably, and without professional help. Not only will this stop those eerie banging sounds, but it’ll also restore full water pressure and protect your system long-term.

If this guide saved you a service call, share it with a friend or on social media! 💧
Your pipes—and your peace of mind—will thank you.

🔁 Remember: Prevention is key. Flush your system after any water interruption, and you’ll rarely hear that gurgle again.