Leaks are one of the most common house problems a homeowner might encounter. The trickiest part is that the problem often occurs somewhere along the pipework, making it difficult to pinpoint. Sometimes the homeowner may not even know that they have a leak in their home. They only discover it once it is too late and the damage has been done.
One of the best ways to protect your home from future leaks is to learn about common scenarios that lead to it. This article will feature six of the most common causes of plumbing leaks so you can quickly identify them and get the help you need.
Six Most Common Plumbing Problems in Residences
1: Clogged Drains
Clogged drains are relatively common. Sometimes, home remedies can be quickly resolved, but they can lead to worse problems, such as pipe damage.
Signs you have a clogged drain:
- Change in water flow
- Debris coming out of the fixture
- Wet spots inside and outside of the home
- High water bills
- Bad odour
- Strange gurgling noises
Call a professional plumber once you notice any of these signs.
2: Damaged Pipe Joints
Pipe connections and joints are the weakest points in the line, and they tend to deteriorate more quickly than the rest. With enough wear and tear, they can cause leaks. The worst thing is that they are out of sight. Problems may arise without the household noticing.
One sign that could help you determine a possible problem is when you hear banging noises when you turn on the water—particularly hot water. This sound may come from the pressure in the pipes as water passes through. Only a plumber can determine if your suspicion about your pipe joints is correct, so ask for an evaluation as soon as you notice a problem.
3: Strong Water Pressure
Having strong water may not seem like a problem at first, but anything excessive is a problem. Pipes and taps are designed to hold a specific amount of water pressure. When the pressure exceeds this, it can cause strain on your pipes, leading to leaks. Make sure a professional plumber conducts regular measurement of your water pressure so you can keep an eye on your system’s performance.
4: Damaged Fixtures
The most prominent cause of water leaks is damaged fixtures. A crack can occur on the tap, the sink, and also in pipes. When there is a crack, the water can drip, causing litres of wasted water and a higher water bill. Report this problem to your trusted plumber as soon as possible so they can repair the issue quickly.
5: Rust and Corrosion
Rust becomes a problem because of how it weakens metal pipes. When these materials become frail, holes may appear, and the whole metal may disintegrate. One cause of this is an imbalance in the water’s pH level and its mineral content. Make sure to use the right materials when sealing out moisture so you can keep your steel pipes from corroding. You may also want to monitor your water’s pH balance and oxygen level to identify if this is the cause.
6: Improper Pipe Installation
When an inexperienced person installs the pipes for you, it could cause serious plumbing problems. You may need to overhaul the installation process to ensure fewer problems in the future. Make sure only to seek the help of experienced plumbing professionals so you can avoid inconveniences like this.
Conclusion
Plumbing problems, particularly leaks, are common household problems, but it does not mean that you cannot prevent them. If you cannot keep an eye on your pipes, make sure to schedule regular plumbing inspection and maintenance to avoid more significant and more costly problems in the future.
Should you need the service of a plumber on the Sunshine Coast, do not hesitate to contact us. Sunny Coast Plumbing and Gas is your professional and punctual plumbers offering service 24/7. We provide our clients with friendly, cost-effective, and on-schedule plumbing solutions.
