DAKS Hacks: How to Remove an Airlock from Water Pipes in Kent

Is your tap sputtering or refusing to release a steady stream of water? You may have an airlock in your plumbing. Airlocks trap air inside the system, leading to low pressure in taps, showers, or even central heating. The good news is that you can remove airlock from water pipes in Kent without much hassle. Here’s how to do it safely — and when to call DAKS Plumbing if you need expert help.

What Is an Airlock?

An airlock happens when air gets trapped in your plumbing system, blocking the normal flow of water. It’s most common in hot-water lines but can affect cold water too. Common signs include:

• No water or weak flow from taps
• Uneven pressure in hot and cold water
• Gurgling noises from pipes

For a detailed look at how air pressure affects plumbing systems, you can also check WaterSafe’s official advice on air in water systems.

How to Remove Airlock from Water Pipes in Kent

1. The Hosepipe Method

This quick and effective fix uses water pressure to push trapped air out of the line:

1. Attach a hose between a working tap and the one affected by the airlock.
2. Turn on the working tap first, then the problem tap.
3. Let water flow for 2–3 minutes to flush the air out.
4. Turn off both taps and test your water pressure.

2. The Bucket Method

If you don’t have a hosepipe, you can still fix it using a bucket and jug:

1. Turn off the mains supply and open all taps to drain the system.
2. Close them again, fill a bucket, and pour water into the affected tap spout using a jug and a cloth seal.
3. Turn the mains back on to force the air out.

3. The Mains Water Blast

If the problem persists, increasing water pressure may help:

1. Turn off your stopcock, usually under the kitchen sink.
2. Open all taps from lowest to highest point in your home.
3. Turn the stopcock back on so water pushes air through the system.
4. Close the taps in reverse order once pressure returns.

Preventing Future Airlocks

To reduce the risk of another airlock:

• Book regular plumbing maintenance
• Check your heating system — explore our Heating Services
• Use Leak Detection to spot air entry points
• Consider Timber & Damp Surveys if you notice damp or mould

FAQs About Airlocks

Can airlocks fix themselves?

Sometimes minor airlocks clear naturally, but stubborn ones usually need manual intervention using one of the above methods.

Are airlocks bad for my plumbing?

They can cause strain on your pump or boiler and increase wear over time if left unresolved.

Should I always call a plumber?

If you’ve tried these fixes and still have weak flow, it’s time to call DAKS Plumbing — your local experts in Kent.

Areas We Cover

We’re based in Swanley and serve Kent, including Dartford, Orpington, Bexley, Wilmington, Eynsford, Farningham, Hextable, West Kingsdown and Crockenhill.

Need Help?

If these methods don’t work, contact DAKS Plumbing. Our skilled team can remove airlock from water pipes in Kent quickly, ensuring your taps and heating flow perfectly again.