Plumbing leaks are incredibly common, with household leaks wasting more than 1 trillion gallons of water in the U.S. each year. Leaks also lead to water damage in your home. Winter is a particularly tricky time for plumbing leaks. Here’s what you should know about potential causes and what you can do.
Frozen Pipes
Frigid temperatures pose a serious risk during the winter months. The plumbing in your home is filled with water, which will freeze if exposed to outdoor temperatures. Water expands as it freezes, so it can easily crack or burst a pipe.
This is why it’s essential to keep your home heated at all times, even if you’re away for extended periods of time. A burst pipe can lead to major repair costs from water pouring into your home.
Even minor damage due to frozen pipes can be difficult to handle, as professional leak detection is needed to track down the leak. If you’re in an older home, there may be uninsulated pipes near exterior walls that are at higher risk of freezing.
Increased Water Pressure
Freezing water in your home’s plumbing or the municipal system entering your home can cause damage even if they don’t directly burst a pipe. Ice forming in the system leads to higher water pressure, which can have a negative impact.
High water pressure can lead to leaks in many different places. It can put stress on connections, allowing water to leak out. The same is also true for various fixtures, leading to leaks around faucets and valves.
Increased water pressure can lead to minor damage that allows water to slowly leak out for long periods of time. This type of difficult-to-identify damage is why routine plumbing inspections are so important.
Damaged Seals
Your home’s plumbing system relies on a variety of seals and gaskets to stop water from escaping joints and connections. These are often made of rubber or plastic, which become brittle in cold temperatures.
If certain plumbing fixtures are exposed to cold, their seals can crack and lead to lasting leaks. This could impact exterior fixtures such as hose connections or those inside your home near exterior walls.
Finding the Cause With Leak Detection
If you’ve noticed signs such as musty smells, water stains, or increasing water usage, your home likely has a leak. Tracking down the leak is essential to carrying out proper leak repair, but it is easier said than done.
Professional leak detection services will ensure the problem is dealt with properly. Experts apply a wide range of modern technology and techniques to trace leaks to their source. That includes tried-and-true methods along with the latest tools, such as thermal cameras and acoustic sensors.
Professional Plumbing Services for All Your Needs
Are you worried about plumbing leaks affecting your home? Don’t hesitate to reach out to Daigle Plumbing, Heating & Cooling for professional leak detection services. Our expert team is here to track down the root cause of any plumbing issues and provide effective leak repair. Schedule service today to get started.
