Germany Office Address

Haus A / 1. Etage, Edisonstr. 63, 12459 Berlin

SEVEN ENGINEERING (BERLIN) GLOBAL TECH BHD
SEVEN ENGINEERING (BERLIN) INNOVATION DESIGN & SERVICES SDN. BHD. (OFFICE)

Level 16, Pavilion Tower, Jalan Raja Chulan, Kuala Lumpur 50200 Malaysia

KL & PJ OPERATION STORE
Section 14, Petaling Jaya, 46100 Malaysia

PENANG & JOHOR OPERATION STORE

Taman Johor Jaya, Johor Bahru, 81100 Johor.

Lorong Nagasari 1, Taman Nagasari, 13600 Pulau Pinang.

TEL: 03 9765 0035 / 014 3200 051

Overview

A clear pipe airlock is an essential component in systems where monitoring airflow and pressure is crucial. This transparent piping solution allows users to visually inspect for blockages, ensuring that airlock issues are quickly detected and resolved. By integrating a clear pipe airlock into industrial or HVAC setups, businesses can maintain smooth airflow and prevent costly disruptions. Whether for manufacturing lines, chemical plants, or ventilation systems, the use of a clear pipe airlock improves operational efficiency, making it a preferred choice for industries focused on precision and performance.

Clear Pipe Airlock | When water flows slower than expected, it may indicate an airlock in the pipes. Addressing this issue promptly can prevent further complications and avoid the need for a plumber. Airlocks, although often overlooked, can be one of the simplest plumbing issues to resolve.

Causes of Airlocks

Airlocks in pipes occur when air becomes trapped, preventing proper water flow. This situation usually arises in hot water or central heating systems. Air bubbles form at high points in the pipe due to the lower density of gas compared to water, blocking the cycle of water circulation.

Identifying an Airlock

Signs of an airlock manifest primarily through irregular water flow from taps or showers. Common indicators include:

  • Sputtering water when faucets are opened, even completely.
  • Complete interruption of water flow from a tap, while other fixtures operate correctly.
  • Mixed taps may still release cold water but struggle with hot water.

Airlock issues are more apparent with hot water because the pressure in the hot water tank is insufficient to push past the air blockage. In contrast, cold water pipes are generally linked to a higher-pressure mains supply, making airlocks less frequent in those lines.

Solutions for Airlocks

If a homeowner is uncertain whether an airlock is the issue or feels unprepared to tackle the problem independently, consulting a professional plumber is advisable. However, a DIY approach can often resolve the situation using some household items, particularly a hose.

Hose Connection Method

  1. Materials Needed: A small length of hose.
  2. Steps:
    • Attach one end of the hose to the problematic hot water tap.
    • Connect the other end to a working cold water tap.
    • Secure the connections with clips or tape to prevent leaks.
    • Activate the hot water for a few seconds, followed by the cold water for about a minute.
    • Turn off the cold tap first, followed by the hot tap.

This method allows the pressure to build and may dislodge the airlock. Repeating this process as necessary can lead to improvement.

Alternative Techniques

If the hose method doesn’t yield results, several other methods can be helpful:

  • Let It Flow: Open all taps in the house and let the water run for a few minutes. Sometimes, this can dislodge air trapped in the pipes.
  • Washer Swasher Method:
    • Disable the hot and cold outlets of the washing machine.
    • Repeat the hose connection technique on these lines.
    • Turn on the hot water valve first, then the cold, leaving both open for about 30 seconds.
  • Shower Power Method:
    • Detach the showerhead from the pipe.
    • Wrap the pipe with plastic bags to create a seal.
    • Reattach the showerhead, turn off the hot water supply to the header tank, and leave the cold water running.

Preventive Measures

Preventing airlocks is more manageable when specific practices are followed:

  • Seal Leaks: Ensure all seals in the plumbing system are intact to prevent air from entering the pipes.
  • Careful System Management: Take care to avoid breaking seals or causing leaks during the draining and refilling processes.

Fixing air leaks does not require specialized tools. Typically, all that is necessary are a hose, a few plastic bags, and some patience while trying different techniques.

However, note that some airlocks might be too complex to resolve without professional assistance. Attempting DIY fixes might accidentally create more problems, leading to a higher repair bill than if a plumber had been called in from the start.