Leaving a water line partially or completely unusable due to an airlock in your plumbing system is both inconvenient and unnecessary. Contact West London Plumbers to have the issue resolved promptly and professionally.
What Is an Airlock?
An airlock occurs when trapped air within a pipe restricts or completely prevents the normal flow of water. While plumbing systems carry both water and air, air is lighter and naturally rises to the highest points within the pipework. When pressure is applied, these trapped air pockets can block the movement of water, resulting in reduced or no flow from taps and fixtures. Airlocks are a common plumbing issue and can significantly impact the efficiency of your household plumbing system. For optimal performance, all pipework—including sections hidden from view—must be properly maintained and free from obstructions. If your tap has suddenly stopped flowing or the water pressure has dropped noticeably, an airlock may be the cause. While temporary DIY solutions may sometimes offer short-term relief, properly resolving an airlock requires professional expertise and specialised tools.
At West London Plumbers, our experienced plumbers possess the necessary skills and equipment to remove airlocks and restore normal water flow safely. Contact us today for a reliable and lasting solution.
How Do You Know If You Have an Airlock?
When an airlock is present in your plumbing system, you may experience one or more of the following symptoms:
- Water sputtering from taps even when the faucet is fully opened
- Little to no water flow despite the mains shut-off valve being fully open
- Inconsistent or interrupted water flow from hot water taps
These issues are most commonly observed in mixer taps or hot water outlets. In many cases, cold water flows normally while hot water either flows intermittently or not at all. If you are experiencing any of these signs, it is advisable to seek professional assistance immediately. As West London Plumbers, we are available to respond promptly to plumbing emergencies and restore your system to full functionality without delay.
Why Do Airlocks Occur?
Airlocks can develop in a plumbing system for several reasons, including:
- Improper installation of plumbing components such as pumps or pipework, which allows air to be drawn into the system
- Refilling of the plumbing system after maintenance or servicing, during which air becomes trapped in the pipes
- Inadequate venting at the highest points of the plumbing system
Proper system design, professional installation, and effective venting are essential to preventing airlocks. Our experienced plumbers ensure your plumbing system is installed correctly and can efficiently resolve airlock issues when they arise.
Solutions for Airlocks
In some cases, airlocks can be temporarily addressed by increasing water pressure to force trapped air out of the pipework. However, airlocks typically occur in hot water pipes, where pressure is often insufficient to dislodge air pockets. Cold water pipes are less affected, as they are directly connected to the mains supply.
While minor airlock issues may be addressed through basic troubleshooting, persistent or recurring problems should always be handled by a qualified plumber. Contact Emergency Plumber London for a safe, effective, and long-lasting solution.