Most homeowners and residents are mystified when an appliance or pipe starts leaking. Unless there was some damage to the area that we can remember, trying to determine why we have a plumbing leak can be confusing—but it’s important to identify the cause in order to prevent it from happening again.
Hiring skilled plumbers in San Antonio, TX is the fastest way to figure out exactly what’s causing your plumbing issues, but there are several common causes of plumbing leaks that you should know about in order to keep the rest of your system and appliances safe:
- Clogged Lines: Clogs in your pipes or drains aren’t usually the cause of leaks, but when left unaddressed for too long, they can cause pipes to overflow, crack or even burst. Clogs and obstructions in high-traffic parts of your system need to be taken care of as soon as possible.
- Broken or Cracked Seals: Any appliance that has water connectors should also be sealed appropriately. Over time, seals (especially rubber ones) break down and experience wear and tear. When you start noticing water accumulating near an appliance, have a plumber in San Antonio, TX check your seals and replace them if necessary.
- Damaged Joints: Pipes are connected with joints, which also deteriorate over time. Since this is usually an invisible part of your plumbing system, it’s hard to tell whether they’re in danger of leaking. Listen to see if you can hear the pipes banging or ticking when you turn on the water, especially when you use hot water. If you hear any unusual sounds, call a plumber right away.
- Corrosion: Older plumbing systems are at risk for corrosion. Metal pipes can and will corrode over time; if you notice any discoloration on visible pipes or simply have an older system, be sure to consult with a plumber right away. You may also notice warping, which is a side effect of corrosion—don’t delay in getting professional assistance.
- Tree Roots: Tree root leaks are a little easier to spot. They usually manifest as sinkholes, wet or extremely green patches in your yard. Tree roots can wrap themselves around the plumbing, choking out the pipes and causing them to crack. This can be accompanied by a drop in water pressure or a spiking utility bill. If you notice any of these signs or you have trees growing close to your building, have a plumber check for leaks.
- Loose Connectors: Your water connectors can shake loose over time, especially in “active” appliances like washing machines. You may be able to reseal and tighten the water connectors yourself.
- Extreme Temperatures: Finally, extreme temperature changes can cause your pipes to expand and contract suddenly, leading them to crack. If your area has experienced temperature peaks and lows recently and you notice signs of leaks, call a professional.
When you need a professional, affordable plumber in San Antonio, TX, be sure to call Big City Plumbing, LLC. We’ve been serving area homeowners for over a decade and look forward to assisting you soon.