Most Common Reasons for Water Leaks and How to Solve Them

Water leaks are very common with residential plumbing. Depending on the reason for the leak, there may be many ways to go about fixing it. Sometimes, you can manage it on your own. Other times, you may need to call in the professionals. Here are a few of the most common reasons for water leaks and what you can do about them.

Clogged Drain

Bathroom drains can become clogged with hair, shampoo residue, and a multitude of other things, especially if you have small children at home. In the kitchen, dirt, food debris, and cooking grease are more common. No matter the culprit, a clogged drain can lead to leaks from burst or cracked pipes. These situation require professional residential plumbing help, but you can avoid them by routinely using a drain cleaning liquid.

Toilet Leak

A leaking toilet is quite common, with 20-35% of toilets experiencing the issue. This can happen for a variety of reasons. One sure sign of a leak is if you hear your toilet flushing on its own. This could be because of a damaged flapper or a leak of the flush valve seal. A leaking toilet might also mean that the seal underneath your toilet is damaged. This can result in a stinky smell. Check the screws and bolts for rusting and ensure it is securely mounted.

High Water Pressure

Residential plumbing is typically not meant for high water pressure as it can cause a lot of damage to your pipes. Anything over 80 psi is too high and should be treated, if possible. Those who live in tall buildings, among hills, or near a fire hydrant may not have a choice in the matter. Due to the high amount of pressure behind your water, you may experience leaks in vulnerable areas of your pipes. Call a plumber to see if there’s a way to repair the damaged spots.

Corroded Pipes

Over time, all homes will experience corroded pipes. Insulating the metal helps maintain durability and prolongs the life of your pipes. When corrosion happens, pinholes can form in the pipes which leads to small leaks. These leaks may go unnoticed until you see water damage on your walls or begin a major renovation project and expose the pipes. Corroded pipes are usually caused by high or low pH levels. To test your water, pick up some pH test strips at your local hardware store. Your water should be between 6.5 to 8.5. If not, consider installing water treatment tools to balance the pH levels.

Your Residential Plumbing Experts in North Georgia

If you notice a water leak in your home, call the professionals at Hulsey Environmental (a Blue Flow Company). We can solve a wide range of residential plumbing issues quickly, and with care. Contact us online or give us a call at 770-746-8520 for emergency service. No matter what time of day or night or what the problem is, we will be there for you.