What are the causes of plumbing leaks?

 

We all know that domestic leaks occur, and surprisingly often. What we often don't know is why they occur. If the pipe has not been damaged, why should it suddenly start leaking? Are the pipes defective? Is the leak a sign of something terribly wrong?

Most common household leaks are simply a consequence of age and wear and tear. Finding, repairing and preventing these leaks means knowing where they come from and what to do before they happen again. 

Common causes of plumbing leaks?

Generally speaking, all pipes leak sooner or later, but several factors can speed up or slow down the time when this happens or cause the initial leak. Here are the most common initial causes of hydraulic leaks:

Broken seals. Most household appliances have seals installed at the point where water flows through them. Like any other part of an appliance, these seals can break or wear out over time. When this happens, some of the water that should enter the appliance may instead leak out.

Clogging. Clogs cause water to stagnate, subjecting the inside of the pipe to high pressure. Over time, all this pressure wears down the seals and pipe walls. When the pressure becomes too much for the walls or weakened seals, they break and create a leak.

How can hydraulic leaks be prevented?

The best way to prevent plumbing leaks is to take care of the pipes. Fortunately, it is quite easy to treat plumbing pipes well. Just make sure to: 

Never use chemical drain cleaners. Chemical drain cleaners often seem like a quick and easy solution to clogs, but they are not. Chemical drain cleaners cannot distinguish between a clog and the surrounding pipes. 

Never use drains as a rubbish can. Most leaks in pipes occur for a number of reasons:

 The first is loosening of fittings. The second is clogging that puts excessive pressure on the pipe walls. If you use your drains like a rubbish can, flushing out things you should not, you are much more likely to cause clogging that requires the drain to be cleaned. The more likely you are to experience a clog, the more likely you are to experience a leak.

What to do when you discover a plumbing leak?

If you are lucky and the leak is just a loose fitting, you will be able to repair it yourself. Simply grab the loose fitting with a plumber's spanner and tighten it to stop the leak. Unfortunately, however, leaks from cracks, fractures and bursts are a bit more difficult to repair. If the pipe is indeed broken, it is advisable to seal it and seek professional help.

Professional plumbing technicians can locate and repair any existing leak in your home's plumbing system. 

Call the Emergency Plumber in Southampton. We are your right contact partner.