The source of a water leak in your home is often hard to find. Your plumbing consists of many hidden components. Nonetheless, even a small leak can waste a lot of water, cause property damage, and lead to mold growth. A professional service provider can employ leak detection methods that pinpoint where the trouble spot is. Below are some of the most common causes of water leaks in home plumbing systems.
Common Causes
Your home may be losing thousands of gallons of water per year due to leaks. These may be driving up your utility bill and causing extensive damage. Common causes of water leaks include:
Broken Seals
Any water-using appliance has seals around its water connectors. There are also seals on dishwasher doors and in toilets. A seal, no matter where it is, can wear with age or break. Condensation and pooling water are the most obvious signs of a broken seal. It must be replaced to correct the leak.
High Water Pressure
Excessive pressure on pipes and faucets can cause damage. Fluctuating pressure can also strain your plumbing system. Home pipes and faucets are generally designed to work within a certain pressure range (around 40 to 60 psi); any higher and leaks can develop. High water pressure can cause small pipe ruptures that grow in size and can also damage appliances.
Clogged Drains
If your drain is clogged, it is more than just a nuisance. In some cases, the clog can cause water to overflow. It can also exert enough pressure to cause a pipe to burst. A clog in an air handler drain pan or an exterior gutter can lead to serious damage as well. Any type of clog should therefore be taken seriously and dealt with by a professional.
Pipe Corrosion
Rust and corrosion happen as pipes age. Over time, oxidation eats away at pipe material and can form tiny holes. Older pipes are at a higher risk of corrosion due to their composition. Discoloration or warping are visual indications your pipes are corroding and should be replaced.
Another place to look for deterioration is pipe joints; they’re the weakest points in your plumbing system so are more susceptible to leaks. Finding some pipe leaks requires enlisting professional leak detection services to precisely locate and fix the problem.
Loose Water Connectors
Hoses and pipes that supply water to home appliances must fit tightly. They can become loose over time, especially if a large appliance shifts. The shaking and vibration of a washing machine are a perfect example. A loosened connector can cause any water feeding the appliance to leak and form puddles around the unit. If you can’t tighten the connector yourself, call a plumbing service professional to determine the cause of the problem and replace any damaged parts.
Temperature Changes
Pipes expand and contract with changes in temperature. Freezing can cause pipes to crack, as can any sudden extreme temperature change. Changes in how your plumbing system and water appliances perform can indicate a recent shift in temperature has led to the damage.
Contact Sky Heating, AC & Plumbing
If your plumbing isn’t working as it should or you suspect a water leak, we can provide any type of plumbing repair. Whether you need drain cleaning or repiping, we can help. Our leak detection equipment allows us to identify the problem and fix it at its exact location. Sky Heating is licensed, bonded, and insured to provide HVAC repair and plumbing repair services in the Portland area. Schedule an appointment online or call 503-506-4665 today!