In a building supply system where a quick acting valve causes noise, which device should be installed close to the valve?

The installation of a water hammer device close to a quick acting valve is essential in mitigating the noise associated with hydraulic shock, commonly referred to as water hammer. Water hammer occurs when a fluid in motion is forced to stop or change direction suddenly, causing shock waves that result in noise and potentially damaging vibrations within the piping system.

A water hammer device, often installed as an air chamber or a similar cushioning mechanism, absorbs the shock created by the sudden pressure changes. This cushion effectively dampens the impact and neutralizes the noise that would arise from the abrupt stop of water flow. By placing the device near the valve, the system can directly counteract the immediate effects of the abrupt changes in pressure, leading to a quieter and more stable plumbing system.

In contrast, while a water softener, water filter, and pressure relief valve play important roles in managing water quality and pressure within the plumbing system, they do not address the specific issue of water hammer. A water softener treats hardness in water, a filter improves water clarity by removing particulates, and a pressure relief valve is designed to protect against overpressure scenarios rather than the sudden changes in pressure associated with quick acting valves.