In almost any Australian home, whether they’re in Sydney or in other areas, leaks are inevitable and a part of any homeowner’s daily life. Sadly, it can cause a major headache, especially if you fail to deal with a leakage problem properly. Leaks occurring at houses are responsible for water damage costs many families need to shoulder every year. With this in mind, it’s crucial to detect and repair leaks as soon as possible before they progress into more dire concerns.
A few of the best ways to identify if you have a leak include looking over your utility bill, checking the water meter, and assessing the water sources in your property. If you’re facing a leak concern in your home, consulting a reliable plumber Northern Beaches and other neighbouring localities would ensure timely resolution of the issue.
If you want to keep your home leak-free, you need to be familiar with its root cause to tackle it head on. Here are several common causes of water leaks you need to know.
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Damaged Or Broken Seal
The plumbing system in your home includes metal pipes and rubber elements. The contractor places a rubber sealant around any connection points or areas such as the dishwasher door to ensure a watertight seal when installing appliances.
Sadly, as equipment ages or deteriorates, the seal can weaken and eventually break down over time. Once you notice puddles of water or condensation near your appliances, it’s an indication of a broken seal.
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Corrosion
When the plumbing system starts to age, rust and other forms of corrosion can steadily break down the pipes and create an opening for water to seep out. If you live in an old house and leaks start to develop, it might be best to consider a pipe replacement job.
Depending on the material you’ll use, brass pipes boast a long lifespan, reaching up to 70 years, while galvanized steel is likely to deteriorate once it reaches 20 years old. Additionally, the lines are susceptible to corrosion if there are imbalances in the water’s pH level and mineral content. Hence, it’s recommended to check your water’s chemical composition regularly.
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Incorrect Pipe Arrangement
A professional should handle the installation of a plumbing system, especially in new houses. The majority of leaks resulting in emergencies typically stem from the incorrect pipe arrangement done by novices. Since plumbing systems need water to flow against gravity, it’s crucial to ensure the correct placement of the lines and connectors with the backflow devices.
Once you suspect your plumbing system has inconsistencies, it’s best to contact a licensed plumber to assess your current system and implement suitable solutions thoroughly.
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Damage To The Pipe Joints
The joints in the piping are one of its vulnerable areas. The joints include separate curved components attaching to straight pipes on either side and works by redirecting water around your home.
Over time, high water pressure and extreme temperatures can strain the pipe joints, resulting in steady deterioration. If you notice a banging or ticking sound when running hot water, your pipes likely have joint issues.
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Blocked Or Clogged Lines
A minor blockage might not seem like an immediate threat for most homeowners, but there are cases when it can lead to overflowing or a burst pipe. A blockage or clog causes the pressure to build up behind the obstruction, potentially resulting in structural damage. Additionally, if a jam involves corrosive substances, like household chemicals, it can hasten the damage to your pipes.
One of the ways to prevent the formation of clogs down your pipes is to install debris traps and monitor what flows down the drain pipe. Any obstructions in the gutters and drain pans can also cause clogs. You can prevent this by keeping the gutters and the heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) system in your home free of debris.
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High Water Pressure
High water pressure can be an advantage when taking a shower, but the strong force within the pipes can put them at risk of leaks and damages over time. In extreme instances, the incorrect pressure can cause the lines to rupture.
Generally, the majority of pipes and faucets can only withstand certain water pressures. If you want to lower the chances of possible leaks in your home or notice leaking, set an appointment with a professional plumber to inspect and carry out the necessary adjustments and repairs.
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Loose Water Connectors
The pipes and hoses supplying water to your appliances can become loose over time. In most cases, it can be due to movement which may eventually result in leakages.
A good example is a leak in your washing machine hose due to the vibration during every spin cycle. Once you notice water flowing from the supply waterline or small puddles of water forming near your appliances, it’s a sign of a loose or damaged water connector. It’s highly advised to deal with this error right away to avoid the chances of possible electrocution.
Conclusion
Leaks will always be a concern for homeowners. To avoid leaks, you need to pay close attention to how your plumbing works around the house and the common causes of water leaks. Once you notice an abrupt increase in your utility bill, formation of puddles near appliances, changes in water flow, or other indications of a potential leak, call a professional plumber to have an inspection performed to conduct necessary repairs in a timely manner.
