Plumbing Africa October 2026 | Page 37

TECHNICAL 35

When this happens, the seal on the needle valve seat is forced closed and will prevent the water from escaping. If any other air finds its way to the top of that part of the plumbing system, the float will again open the needle valve and allow the air to escape.

All images by Caleffi

Trapped air in a plumbing system causes several key issues:

• Flow reduction: Air pockets act as blockages that reduce water flow capacity, lowers overall efficiency and wastes energy.

• Pressure surges( water hammer): As water pushes air pockets through a system, it can create violent pressure spikes capable of rupturing pipes and damaging fixtures.

• Corrosion and noise: Air in the lines accelerates pipe corrosion and creates loud, disruptive banging or gurgling noises in your plumbing.

Installations like solar heating systems are more prone to trapping air. For installations like that, the heat factor must be considered and a valve with a suitable temperature rating should be selected. PA

Need help or advice? For any further information regarding this topic, please contact: Patrick Gordon | + 27( 0) 83 303 1437 | patrickg @ splashworks. co. za

Do you have a technical question for Patrick? Email your technical questions to megan @ interactmedia. co. za, with the subject line‘ Technical question’.

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