Water leaks are a major problem in homes with modern plumbing systems. As long as there are pipes, plumbing fixtures, and water-utilizing appliances, there is a chance that leaks will happen in any location, says RedStone Management.
The major issue with water leaks is they do not always announce themselves. A leak can occur inside your home for months without leaving clues. In other words, you will not see water cascading from the site of the leak.
That is why it is essential to plan for regular inspection of the condition of your water pipes. What are some rampant water leaks that happen in homes, their causes, and ways to prevent or fix these problems?
Common causes of water leaks in your home
Aging or damaged components
Worn-out seals in your dishwasher, sink, toilet, washing machine, refrigerator, faucet, or bathtub can cause them to leak.
Loose connections
Loose connections result from aging, water hammers, using the wrong parts, or unprofessional plumbing installations.
Rust and corrosion
Corrosion is a major problem in galvanized steel pipes, storage water heaters, and appliances. Corroded plumbing fixtures and appliances will leak.
High water pressure
Even if it happens only once, high water pressure can create weak points within your plumbing. These weak points may rupture subsequently.
Clogs and blockages
Sedimentation inside water pipes can narrow their diameter, leading to high water pressure and weakening the pipes. Sediments in water heaters can also corrode the tank and cause it to leak.
Extreme temperature changes
Pipes can freeze and burst if exposed to cold air. This problem is common in areas with cold winters.
How to detect, fix, and prevent water leaks in your home
Monitor your water bill
Increases in your water bill that are not backed by changes in your usage pattern may be due to a hidden leak in your home. If your water bill is higher than it should be, do the following checks:
Do a water meter test
To find the leak, turn off all faucets and water-utilizing appliances in the home. Check the water meter to see if the snowflake dial is moving. If it is, there’s a leak.
Turn off the water supply
Turn off the water supply to the house at the main water shut-off valve. Recheck the water meter. If the snowflake dial stops moving, the leak is inside the home. If the dial continues to move, there is a leak in your main water line.
To find the exact location of the leak, there are different methods. But the best option is to get a professional plumber to inspect your plumbing.
How to fix water leaks in your home
The proper method to fix a water leak depends on what is leaking and the cause of the leak.
Replace worn parts
If the leak is from a worn-out component in your faucet, shower, or toilet, the solution is simple. Replacing the damaged part will solve the problem.
Replace damaged fixtures
For cracked toilets, sinks, and other plumbing fixtures, the only option is to replace them. Only seal the cracked section as a temporary fix.
Fix loose connections
Fix loose connections by tightening or reapplying glue. If the pipes are worn, replace them. It is essential to note that worn-out pipes are more likely to burst.
Replace the pipes
Water line replacement can be simple or costly, depending on the size of the damaged section and whether it is accessible. When replacing plumbing pipes, you have a choice between trenchless and traditional repair methods. Trenchless pipe repair methods are less “painful” because they don’t involve a lot of excavation. They take less time, and the damage to your landscaping is minimal.
How to prevent water leaks in your home
Inspect the plumbing regularly
Water leaks in your home sometimes leave signs. However, you may not see those if you don’t look out for them. Inspecting your home for signs of leaks will help you find water leaks before they become terrible.
Monitor your water pressure
Testing your home’s water pressure when doing your monthly general maintenance for the home. Installing a smart water monitor gives you an easy way to track the water pressure and identify potential leaks.
Insulate and protect your pipes
Understand the steps to shield your water pipes from cold air during the winter. Insulate the unheated spaces in your home and plug any cracks or openings where cold air can enter the house.
Install a leak detector
Water leak detectors keep an eye on your plumbing when you cannot. They constantly monitor the flow of water through the pipes, looking for subtle changes in water pressure that might indicate a leak in the system.
Lastly, you want a competent plumber to inspect your entire water supply system at least once every year. This step is essential for helping you detect budding problems to stay ahead of potential leaks in your plumbing.