In most cases, homeowners aren’t familiar with the necessary precautions regarding the plumbing system. While several problems might arise throughout their stay at a particular property, the fairly common problem they experience is frequent water leaks, among other plumbing issues.
If you are one of them, you know how challenging the situation can be. Therefore, you need to know what causes these leaks, how to detect them, and how to rectify the situation. In this article, we will cover all these fundamental factors that might come in handy for you.
How to Detect Water Leaks in Your Home Plumbing
The trick to treat water leaks is to detect them as soon as possible. For that, you need to have basic knowledge regarding water leaks and how to detect them. The following are the signs that the water is leaking:
- Water stains might start appearing on the walls and ceilings of your home. This is one of the most apparent signs that a pipe needs your immediate attention somewhere behind the wall.
- Wet drywall indicates that assistance from a plumber is required to treat water leaks.
- If the water has been leaking for quite some time and you are unaware of it, patches of molds and mildew can be seen just below the showers. If things get worse, they might penetrate inside the wall, infecting the entire construction.
- Water leaks are the worst enemy of sturdy construction. These leaks can cause visible cracks on the surface of the wall. Moreover, they can also affect the foundation of the building.
If you experience any of these signs, you should immediately call a professional to rectify the situation. While these signs are rather apparent, sometimes, you need to look out for the following subtle signs to keep the situation from getting worse than it already is.
- Frequent episodes of musty smells.
- An increase in your utility bills that you did not see coming.
- Subtle sounds of a running tap, even when it is not being used.
What are the Factors that Cause Household Water Leaks?
Since the pipes in your home are hidden behind the walls, you might not be able to inspect them to look for the cause of water leaks. However, the following are some factors that can cause water leaks:
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Clogged Lines
Clogged lines can be a homeowner’s nightmare. It can cause multiple plumbing problems, most of which can result in severe damage to the property. Obstructions in pipes can cause serious water damage. The pipelines might leak or even burst if not taken care of promptly.
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Water Pressure
It is essential to regulate the water pressure. It should neither be too suppressed nor too excessive. While no one likes uneven water pressure, some pipelines can’t withstand the extreme water pressure and end up bursting.
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Corrosion
An outdated plumbing system can be a cause of a lot of problems. The rust might trample over the water system, causing excessive water leaks. Other forms of corrosion are so severe that they can eat away the entire pipeline. Therefore, it is essential to look out for signs of corrosion.
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Broken Seals
Water connectors are covered with seals that protect them from water damage. As these connectors age, the seals might wear out, or worse, get broken. This might result in water leaks and condensation around old appliances.
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Damaged Pipe Joints
A household has multiple pipes joined together with the help of connectors and joints. These joints are the places that are most sensitive to water damage. If the pipelines have run their due course, the joints might wear out or get deteriorated, causing excessive water leaks.
A damaged pipe joint puts pressure on the pipeline, especially when hot water is running. One way of detecting the leaks and rectifying the situation before it gets worse is by looking out for noise. The pipes might make a banging sound every time they are being operated. This sound indicates that the pipe joints are deteriorating and need immediate assistance.
What Needs to Be Done to Stop Water Leaks?
If you have detected a water leak, you should immediately call a professional for assistance. Treating water leaks involve pipelines – something entirely out of your forte as you don’t have access to the hidden pipes. However, here are some easy tips that might come in handy for you:
- Don’t let your pipes freeze. Get a protective layer over them to keep them warm and functional.
- Keep a check on the pipes visible to you. Look out for signs of damage.
- Keep your sinks clean. Don’t let them get stuffed with food crumbs.
- Keep a check on the water heater. If it is dripping, you should immediately ask for help.
- Trapped leaks can be traced back to the wall. Tighten them using a wrench to stop the leaking water.
- Keep your eye out for mechanical faucets. These faucets tend to wear out over time, causing water leaks.
- If the washer is leaking, you need to remove it immediately and get a new washer.
Final Word
Water leaks are a fairly common plumbing issue that can lead to severe problems. The entire pipeline might burst if not taken care of properly and, not to forget, promptly. Therefore, you should call a professional and get them fixed in time.