Ask a Sacramento Leak Detection Expert: What Causes Pipes to Leak?
Published on December 12, 2013
Corrosion and Rapid Temperature Changes Possible Causes of Your Leaking Pipes
Is it really enough to know only that you have a leak in your home? At Boyd Plumbing, we don’t think so. We want you to know that it’s important for you, as a homeowner, to understand what makes that happen.
Is it because of the material the pipes are made out of? Is something wrong with the water that’s flowing through the pipes? Is it just a random, unfortunate occurrence? Sit tight – we’ll fill you in.
Common Causes of Leaky Pipes
- Corrosion: Most commonly found in metallic pipes that are 15 years old or older, several things contribute to this corrosion – water chemistry, the pH level of the water, the amount of oxygen in the water, the water temperature, and the velocity/pressure of the water in the pipes.
- Eroded by water: Believe it or not, water – over time – can become powerful enough to cut through rock. This means that it’s also powerful enough to do the same thing to your pipes. Water slowly erodes the inside of the pipe until it eventually breaks through, causing a leak.
- Excessive pressure: If the pressure of the water flowing through the pipes is too much, it creates weak spots, resulting in a leak. If you think you have excessive water pressure in your home, you can have a pressure regulator installed, and it will hopefully solve the problem. If not, Boyd Plumbing professionals are here to help.
- Punctures: We most commonly see this problem in plastic piping. Almost every type of material is at risk for punctures – big or small – and your pipes are no exception. This is something that is easily repaired, so no need to worry!
- Temperature changes: You know how if you put really hot water into an ice cold glass, it’s possible for the glass to break? The same thing happens with your pipes. Because water expands and contracts with changes in temperature, a sudden burst of hot water into a freezing cold pipe could cause that pipe to burst.
No matter the reasons why your pipes are leaking, our experts here at Boyd Plumbing, will find it, repair it, and be on our way in no time. Call us today!
