What could be a sign of water hammer in a plumbing system?

A loud banging noise in pipes is a classic sign of water hammer in a plumbing system. Water hammer occurs when there is a sudden stop or change in the direction of water flow within the pipes, often due to the rapid closure of valves or fixtures. This abrupt change creates a shock wave that causes the pipes to vibrate or resonate, leading to the characteristic banging sound. Understanding this phenomenon is crucial for identifying potential issues in a water distribution system, as it can lead to significant wear and tear on the plumbing infrastructure if not addressed properly.

Other options, although they may indicate issues in the plumbing system, are not specific to water hammer. Low water pressure could signal various problems such as clogs or leaks, discoloration of water may indicate contamination or rust, and frequent leaks could suggest deterioration of pipes or fittings. However, none of these directly correlate with the sudden disturbances that define water hammer.