Household leaks are a common problem that waste gallons of water and increase your home’s water bill. By finding and addressing household leaks, homeowners can save themselves a lot of money.
Unrecognized leaks can cause serious damage to homes. Look out for signs such as a sudden drop in water pressure, musty smells, or warped, stained or sagging floors and ceilings.
Table of Contents
Old Pipes
If your house was built before the 1990s, it may feature pipes made of materials that no longer meet national building codes. Such old pipes can corrode quickly and lead to leaks or bursts.
The age of your home’s piping can also indicate whether it’s time for an update. Make it a habit to inspect the exposed piping in crawl spaces and basements for signs of corrosion, including discoloration, dimpling, or pitting. Also look out for low water pressure as it could signal the need to replace your pipes.
If you discover a leak, turn off the water valve closest to the problem area and call a plumber right away. Leaking pipes can cause significant damage to the structure of your home, and left untreated, the issue will only get worse. Taking quick action can protect your property and save you money in the long run. Here are some of the most common reasons that leaks occur in homes.
Foundation Issues
The water pipes and sewer lines under a foundation can shift with natural soil movement or be pulled from a wall due to earthquakes, flooding or severe weather. This pull can lead to a separation or misalignment in the drain lines, creating a plumbing leak.
A recurring issue is trees that intrude and clog the drain line. The tree is eventually “roto-rooted” away, but it soon grows back and intrudes again. This is a sign of a drain line problem that needs to be addressed.
Unexplained water bills can also indicate a foundation-related plumbing issue. Water supply line breaks and leaks are a common cause of higher water bills and can lead to rotting walls, ceilings, warped floors and peeling paint. The longer the leak is allowed to continue, the more damage it can cause throughout your home. If you are not sure what the source is, contact us for professional testing and repairs. We are a full-service plumbing company that specializes in detecting and fixing leaks.
Corrosion
Metal pipes are especially susceptible to corrosion when they are exposed to hard water. The components of the water, like acids and oxygen, react with the metal and
cause it to weaken. Over time, this will create leaks and clogs. You can usually tell if you have corroded pipes by the appearance of the pipes themselves, such as rust or discoloration. If you notice these symptoms, call a plumber to inspect your pipes as soon as possible.
Another common reason for pipe leaks is when the rubber seals break down. These are found in many areas around the house, including in toilets and other appliances. They can also be damaged by harsh chemicals, such as those used in drain cleaners. The sudden exposure to extreme temperatures can also affect these seals, causing them to crack or dry out over time. This can lead to leaks or even bursts. The good news is that these leaks can often be fixed with quick fixes, such as tightening a pipe joint or adjusting the water pressure.
High Water Pressure
Most home plumbing systems aren’t designed to handle water pressure exceeding 80 psi. Too much pressure can cause damage to your pipes and appliances by making them work harder to move the water through them. This can lead to leaking or even burst pipes. These leaks waste water and can encourage unwanted organic growth in your home.
If you’re concerned about your water pressure, a licensed plumber can help. You can also purchase a pressure gauge to monitor your home’s water pressure throughout the day. If it consistently reads over 80 psi, you may need to take action. For help with plumbing problems, https://www.fixitrightplumbing.com.au/blocked-drains-melbourne/ and sites alike have a lot of helpful resources.
High water pressure can also be caused by a faulty pressure regulator valve located near the main water meter. In this case, a plumber will need to be called to repair the faulty valve and adjust your water pressure.