When it comes to household plumbing leaks, many homeowners overlook early warning signs until there's a major problem. This can lead to expensive water damage and property loss.
As Benjamin Franklin once said, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. To help, we have compiled a list of the most common plumbing leaks that occur in homes. If further assistance is needed, sites like https://www.fixitrightplumbing.com.au/plumber-hawthorn/ provide a lot of resourceful information.
- Faucet Leaks
The drip-drip-drip of a leaky faucet isn’t just an annoyance, it’s a waste of water and money. Even a single drop per second adds up and can cause serious household damage including rot, mold and warped flooring and ceilings.
These leaks usually stem from worn-out washers, gaskets or o-rings. They can happen in the handle, spout or at the valve seat where sediment may build up and corrode the faucet.
Leaky faucets also create an ideal environment for bacterial growth and can lead to a decrease in water pressure. This can be a big problem as it makes washing dishes, bathing and showering more difficult. Unresolved leaks can also lead to high water bills, so it’s important to keep an eye on your water meter. You can often spot a water leak by observing puddles, or by noting an unusually high water bill. If you notice a sudden increase, call a plumber to inspect your plumbing.
- Water Heater Leaks
Water heater leaks are another common plumbing problem that can lead to severe damage and high repair bills if left unaddressed. These leaks often occur from the pressure relief valve or from the drain pipe at the bottom of the tank.
The leaking water often results in rust, corrosion, and structural damage to nearby surfaces. In some cases, the rust and corrosion can also create a fire hazard or promote unwanted growth inside the home.
It’s important for homeowners to keep an eye out for leaking water heaters, particularly since the location of these leaks can reveal valuable information about their severity. Knowing where the leaks are located can help plumbers to better understand the cause and make quick repairs. It can also save plumbers time and money when homeowners are able to point them in the right direction. This is why it’s important for homeowners to take proactive steps to check their appliances and conduct regular inspections with professional plumbers.
- Sewer Line Leaks
Sewer lines play a critical role in keeping homes clean and sanitary by transporting waste to wastewater treatment plants. But they're not immune to damage and
failure.
When a sewer line fails, it can lead to numerous problems inside and outside of your home. Clogs, foul odors and insect infestations can all occur.
If you notice a sudden increase in your water bill, it may be caused by a leak in the sewer line. Sewer line leaks can also cause soil changes such as wet or sunken spots in the yard, as well as damage to concrete patios, sidewalks and driveways.
Sewer line clogs can be caused by flushing non-biodegradable items like baby wipes, paper towels and sanitary products down drains. They can also occur if you pour cooking oil and grease down the sink instead of letting it cool before disposing of it. A clogged drain or sewer backup can cause significant damage and impact your quality of life, so be sure to act quickly if you notice these signs.
- Pipe Leaks
Pipe leaks are serious plumbing problems that can cause extensive water damage and lead to the growth of mold and mildew. They can also create the ideal environment for pests to enter your home and cause further problems. Regularly check for signs of a pipe leak such as unexplained water puddles, discolouration of walls and ceilings and a musty smell.
Corrosion, high water pressure and freezing temperatures can all cause pipes to develop leaks. Water leaking from plumbing pipes can cause moisture damage to drywall, paint and wood floors. In addition, the leaking water may promote unwelcome mold and mildew growth, as well as unsightly stains on walls and ceilings.
If you suspect you have a leaky pipe, a plumber should be called immediately to diagnose and fix the problem before it gets worse. Leaving even small leaks unchecked can cause costly water damage, ruin your home's appearance and lower its value when you decide to sell it.