Monthly Archives: January 2023

What is Water Hammer and How to Stop It!

Water hammer, also known as hydraulic shock, is a banging or knocking sound that can occur in pipes when a valve, a tap or faucet is quickly closed. The banging noise and vibrations from water hammer can be felt throughout a house and, in multi-storey buildings, because the water pipes pass through and serve every level, banging can be heard on building levels far from the source of the water hammer. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including high water pressure, improper pipe installation, or worn out valves. Some causes include, the fitting of a new dishwasher or clothes washing machine, or fast closing mixer style taps that shut down or stop the water flow quickly.

Stopping water hammer can be challenging, as it often requires identifying the root cause of the issue and then implementing a solution. Some common solutions include installing water hammer arrestors, which are devices that absorb the shock of rapidly moving water, replacing worn out valves, or adjusting the water pressure.

In some cases, the solution may be as simple as tightening loose pipe connections or securing loose pipes.

However, it is always recommended to consult a plumber if you experience water hammer, as they can diagnose the issue and recommend an appropriate solution.

Should the Toilet seat be left Up or Down?

Our summer break allows time to ask some of the greater life questions.                                   

And the Question of Toilet seat, Up or Down? is a big one.

Over salad sandwiches, I asked the Question, Why do Women want the toilet seat left down?

The reply was simple!

Leaving the toilet seat down is considered courteous and hygienic for women because it helps to prevent the toilet from splashing onto the seat or floor when it is used.

Additionally, it makes it easier for them to use the toilet without having to adjust the seat themselves.

Then I asked my audience, Can you give 3 reasons why men want the seat left up?

  1. To prevent falls: Men may prefer to leave the seat up to prevent accidental falls or slips when using the toilet in the middle of the night or in low-light conditions.

  2. Hygiene: Some men may prefer to leave the seat up to prevent the buildup of bacteria or germs on the seat.

  3. Ease of use: Men may prefer to leave the seat up because it makes it easier for them to use the toilet without having to adjust the seat themselves.

A few days later, I posed the same question, and got this reply.

For the ladies

  1. Leaving the toilet seat down can help prevent accidents and injuries by reducing the chance of falling or sitting on a wet seat.

  2. It can also help to keep the bathroom cleaner by reducing the likelihood of toilet water splashing onto the floor or seat.

  3. Lastly, it is often considered more hygienic for women as it makes it easier for them to use the toilet without having to adjust the seat themselves, avoiding any potential contact with germs.

Then the men

  1. Men may prefer to leave the toilet seat up because it is the default position, and they are used to it.
  2. A raised seat allows men to aim more effectively, reducing the likelihood of urine splash-back or misses.

  3. Leaving the seat up can also serve as a visual indicator that the toilet has been used, so that the next person to use it knows to lower the seat before using it.

It’s important to note that these preferences are not universal and may vary from person to person. Ultimately, it’s a matter of personal preference.

What do you think?