You can use three criteria to tell the difference between air in the pipes and water hammer.
Water hammer irrigation system in house.
Because of their echoing effect the noise may seem like it is emanating from a particular sprinkler.
When the system is turned on the water behind the air bubble will speed up the air will run out of the system and the result will be water hammer.
Two guys were working full time just repairing the pipe breaks.
The water runs up from the metre to near the basement ceiling and turns 90 degrees to run below the ceiling all in 3 4 copper pipes.
They had tried for months to fix it and numerous irrigation equipment salesmen had checked it out.
It also discusses the difference between water hammer and air in the pipes.
Air in the system can contribute to water hammer as it can travel at a higher velocity than water.
The water hammer was literally blowing apart the system.
If you hear the noise when the valves close if it occurs when the pump starts or if you hear rapid.
Our house is on city water with a psi about 78 at the street and a bit lower in the house.
Most water hammer arrestors available today are easy to install and they feature screw type connectors that attach between a water supply line and a shut off valve view example on amazon.
This article discusses both the diagnosis of and how to fix water hammer.
Many years ago i was called in to consult on a large high school irrigation system that was having water hammer problems.
Water hammer is a noisy annoying condition that can happen in sprinkler system and indoor water pipes.
Two of thses zones are about 2 feet from the 2nd ball valve.
Drip irrigation water hammer.
Meter to house 3 4 copper after the house ball valve a t leading to another ball valve for 1 pvc water line that feeds 4 zone valves.
I had a drip system put in and it was run as so.