Water leaks can cause significant damage to your home, but in most cases they are preventable. That’s why it’s important to know and understand the common causes of these leaks, so you can make sure they don’t happen in the future. If you DO experience them, we recommend a specialist leak detection plumber who can identify the problem faster and minimse the potential damage by fixing it quicker than a regular plumber.
Here are 10 common causes of household water leaks.
1. High Water Pressure
High water pressure can cause pipes to burst or leak. To avoid this problem, you need to call a plumber to install a pressure regulator. This regulator ensures that your home’s water pressure is always well within safe limits.
2. Tree Roots
Tree roots are a common cause of water leaks because they can penetrate pipes, causing cracks and breakages. If you have large trees surrounding or near your home, it’s a good idea to have your pipes inspected regularly. Burst pipes are super annoying (and a waste of water) so reducing the potential issues is a worthwhile task!
3. Clogged Sinks and Drains
Clogged sinks or drains can cause water to back up and leak out of your pipes. Clogs can be caused by several materials, including food waste, hair and soap residue. So, it’s important not to flush non-degradable materials down the drain, and if you suspect a blockage, call your blocked drain plumber to clear it before it gets worse.
4. Extreme Temperature Changes
Extreme temperature changes can cause pipes to expand and contract, which can cause them to weaken or break. This is particularly common during winter when pipes can freeze in some remote areas of Australia, causing them to burst when they thaw. If you live in an area where Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, then insulating your pipes is a great way to help prevent this problem.
5. Broken Seals
The seals around taps, toilets and showerheads wear out over time, causing water to leak within the walls or fixtures. When this happens, it’s essential to replace the seals promptly. To prevent broken seals, ask your plumber to inspect and maintain your plumbing system regularly.
6. Weather Conditions
Extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rainfall, can cause water leaks in your home. To prevent water leaks during heavy rainfall, ensure that your roof is in good condition and that your gutters and drainpipes are not blocked with debris.
7. Age
As your home’s plumbing system ages, it can become prone to leaks. Old pipes are more likely to break or corrode, leading to water leaks. If your home is more than 20 years old, it’s a good idea to have a professional plumber inspect your pipes to determine their condition. If they’re in poor condition, you may need to replace them to avoid future leaks.
8. Appliance Malfunctions
Washing machines, dishwashers and water heaters can all cause water leaks if they malfunction. For example, if the washing machine hose becomes damaged or disconnected, it can leak water onto your floor. Regularly inspecting and maintaining your appliances can help prevent these problems.
9. Poor Workmanship
DIY repairs or poor workmanship can result in multiple leaks throughout your home. Previous owners of your property may have tried their hand at repairs or employed unqualified tradespeople. Whatever the cause, an experienced and fully qualified plumber can spot these issues and repair them quickly.
10. Land Movement
Over time, the natural movement of land underneath and around your house can cause pipes to shift and break, resulting in water leaks. An experienced plumber can identify these issues and make the necessary repairs.
Call Toscano Plumbing today!
Water leaks can cause significant damage to your home, leading to the growth of mould, increased water bills, and structural damage. Regular inspection and maintenance of your plumbing system by a professional plumber can help prevent water leaks in your home.
