Top 3 Causes Of Plumbing Leaks And How To Prevent Them

One of the biggest homeowner headaches is waking up to a plumbing leak. It’s especially stressful when you’re not sure why the leak is happening or what needs to be done to fix it. 

At Ted and Bros Plumbing, we are a full service, family owned plumbing business that works with homeowners everyday helping to resolve their plumbing problems. When it comes to leaks, it’s important to take care of the situation immediately before the leak gets worse and causes more damage.

In this article, we go over the most common causes of plumbing leaks and what you can do to help prevent them.

Plumbing Leaks

What Are The Top 3 Causes Of Plumbing Leaks?

  • Pipe Corrosion
  • Clogged Pipes
  • Broken Seals

Pipe Corrosion

Where there’s a leak, there’s usually also corrosion. Corrosion can be caused by a number of things including older plumbing, water quality, and poorly installed pipes. 

The telltale signs of pipe corrosion, besides a leak, are rusty pipes or small pieces of metal in the water. As soon as you notice these signs, call a professional plumber immediately. Even if you don’t have a leak, corroded pipes will only get worse and lead to worse problems in the future.

Clogged Pipes

As pipes get older, it’s common for things like hair, dirt, and soap to accumulate on the pipe walls from regular usage. As this accumulation increases, it will reduce water flow. Ultimately it can lead to a blockage, especially if something is flushed that shouldn’t be such as feminine hygiene products. Water will back up, and can also leak through the caulking and seals.

There are many easy ways to help prevent clogged pipes including:

  • Collecting grease instead of pouring it down the kitchen sink
  • Using hair catchers in your showers
  • Avoiding flushing products down the toilet including baby wipes, hygiene products, and paper towels
  • Occasionally flushing your drains

If you have a clogged drain, a professional drain cleaning service will restore your plumbing system.

Broken Seals

When home appliances are installed, seals are put around all the water connectors. These seals wear out overtime and need to be replaced, otherwise they will break which allows water to leak through. 

Other than an actual leak, the main sign you have broken seals is if you are noticing condensation on or near your appliances. You can help avoid a leak caused by broken seals by making sure your seals are in good condition and not broken.

More Causes Of Plumbing Leaks

Though the causes listed above are common, the leak in your home can also be caused by:

  • Broken pipe joints
  • High water pressure
  • Tree roots

Where Are The Most Common Places To Spot A Plumbing Leak?

  • Under sink
  • Around toilet
  • Tubs/Showers
  • Around the water heater
  • Ceilings
  • Exterior spigots

When You Have A Plumbing Leak

If you’re noticing that your drains are working slower than usual, it’s time to take care of the issue before it becomes a bigger problem.

Have a slow running or clogged drain? At Ted & Bros Plumbing, we’re committed to solving any problems your home is experiencing. We provide all types of drain cleaning services including floor drains, downspout drains, storm drains, sewer drains, and more

 Start by requesting a free estimate and someone will contact you within 24 hours. If you require immediate assistance, please feel free to call us at (714) 290-0080.