Leaky pipes can cause serious damage to your furniture, carpets, floors, walls, and ceilings. The excess moisture also encourages mould and mildew to thrive. Altogether, these problems could cost you a lot in repairs.
Unfortunately, most plumbing systems run deep underground. You may fail to notice a plumbing leak unless you see pooling water. Understanding what causes a plumbing leak can help you know when to consult a professional to help prevent more problems.
1. Clogged Lines
Although a clog may not seem to be an immediate threat, the effects can cause burst pipes and overflow issues. Pressure may build up behind the clog and cause structural damage to your pipes. If a clog holds corrosive elements such as household chemicals, your pipes may deteriorate much quicker.
You can prevent clogs in your pipes if you watch what flows down the drains. In addition, useful protective installations like hair traps can make a huge difference in your plumbing system. Remember to call in your plumber if you suspect any blockages in your system.
2. Corroded Pipes
With time, the inner surfaces of your pipes might start to rust, especially if you have hard water running through your home. Corroded pipes may not withstand the high water pressure in your plumbing system. High water pressure could trigger pinhole leaks that are more pronounced in the severely corroded parts of your pipes.
Most times, pipe corrosion occurs due to either low or high pH levels in the water. Experts recommend a pH range of 6.5 to 8.5 for your water. If you're unsure about your water supply, ask your plumber to measure your water's pH level. If the pH levels fall outside the recommended range, your plumber can correct them using specific water treatment tools.
You could also ask your plumber to install insulators like pipe shoes or wear pads to slow down corrosion.
3. Damaged Seals
During installation, plumbers use rubber seals to attach pipes to faucets and other fixtures in your home. These seals are designed to prevent water leaks, but with time they may begin to wear out.
When the seals are broken or damaged, water may leak out from your pipes. Also, a loose seal might create excess condensation near a plumbing fixture.
Remember to have your pipes and fixtures inspected frequently so you don't miss out on damaged seals. Your plumber may also offer better solutions to protect your seals against unexpected failure in future. Contact a plumbing company in your area to learn more.
