We rely on the plumbing in our homes for a lot of things, from a morning shower to washing our clothes or ensuring our dishes are clean. It's no surprise, then, that a water leak can cause a great deal of inconvenience, including water damage, damp conditions, and an interruption to your day-to-day life. Water leaks can occur for many different reasons, which can sometimes make it hard to identify exactly where the leak is coming from.
Luckily, there are experts on hand who can trace the source of the leak on your behalf, but if you want to look out for some of the most common causes of water leaks, see our brief guide below.
Broken seals
Appliances like dishwashers, refrigerators, and washing machines will have all been fitted with seals around the water connectors when they were installed. While these seals are watertight at first, over time they will naturally decay and wear down, which can lead to leaks. If you notice puddles of water nearby or condensation on your appliances, this is a strong indication that a seal has broken.
Excess water pressure
Many people think that high water pressure can't be a bad thing, but too much pressure can put a strain on your water pipes. Taps and pipes are designed to withstand only a certain level of pressure, so excessive pressure can lead to leaks or the failure of water fixtures. A small stream of spraying water at the sides of the main tap stream is a telltale sign that your water pressure is too high.
Corrosion
Most plumbing systems are designed to last between 80 and 100 years before they need to be replaced. However, if you live in an older home, there's a chance that your pipes may have corroded with age. Rust and other forms of corrosion can cause significant damage and lead to serious leaks, so it's best to call a professional to assess the situation.
Damaged pipe joints
The point where pipes connect is often the weakest point in a plumbing system and the area most prone to leaks. The majority of pipe joints are hidden under floors or within walls, so it can be difficult to assess whether there's any damage. Look out for noisy pipes and excessive ticking or banging noises, as this often indicates that the joints are under pressure.
If you've noticed any telltale signs of a leak in your home, prevent further damage by calling the experts at Leak Tracers Direct straight away. Our team has all the equipment and expertise needed to identify the source of the leak. We can also arrange building repairs to address the damage to your home under your buildings insurance policy on your behalf. Give us a call today to find out more.