Over 99% of the population has cold and hot piped water, a bathtub, a toilet, and a shower brought into their residence through residential water pipes. Freshwater coming in and wastewater leaving your pipes is the result of years of experimenting with water delivery systems. Though modern water and sewer systems work effectively without constant human intervention, if anything goes wrong, the water flow may be disrupted.
What Can Go Wrong With Your Pipes?
Assuming that there are no issues with the water source, the problem could be with your water pipes themselves. There can be one of three major malfunctions in your plumbing pipes – leakage, blockage, or burst pipe.
Poor installation – Improper sealing, poor weld joints, faulty fittings, or loose nuts will lead to subsequent leaks. You should have a proper pipe design for water to flow with ease to and from your house.
Improper pipe size – Pipes with a diameter too small to allow water flow will leak or become clogged or break from high pressure.
Wear and tear – The pipes move gradually as water flows through the pipes at high speed, allowing them to eventually break down at the sealing point and weaken. Even, the friction of water movement allows the metal to erode over time.
Old infrastructure – Plumbing systems and lines installed decades ago, especially if they are made of galvanised iron, can corrode from age. The metal is eaten away by corrosion and mineral residues, which are also caused by the acidity of the underlying soil.
Weather changes – Water can expand and break pipes and fittings during freezing temperatures.
Erratic pressure – A sudden increase in water pressure can lead to burst pipes.
Tree roots – Tree roots may find their way through tiny cracks in pipes over time and gradually cause blockage or breakage as they grow inside.
Blockage – If foreign objects find their way through the pipe, or mineral particles adhere to the side of the pipes, the flow of water will be impeded by either blockage or accumulation. Many homeowners experience these kinds of blockages in their kitchen sink or shower.
Damage – During construction or any installation, when you hit a pipe and it can cause cracks or breaks in the pipe and lead to a sudden surge of water inside your property.
Plumbing Failure – Here’s What You Should Do!
Any of the above causes can result in decreased water flow, leakage, or flooding, so it is important to have a licensed plumber inspect the problem. Even small leaks can quickly become flooded bringing in more water or continually seeping into walls, floors, and appliances. Water damage can be expensive either way. While in some situations, you will be able to see the issue and know the cause of the water leak, but in other instances, the problem may be in the pipes concealed in the ground or covered in a wall.
To find the possible causes of the water problem in your home, a professional plumber may use a tiny camera that photographs the inside of pipes. The professional may use an electric auger or snake to crack through the clog upon finding a blockage. Professional plumbers cut into walls or dig outdoors to access the pipe if they find a leak in the pipe or at the joints.
The Benefits Of Timely Repair
While unanticipated plumbing problems can happen at any moment that can result in a leak, break, or cause a flood. If you prepare accordingly, you decrease the odds of unforeseen problems. To stop the problem, contact a licensed plumber at the first sign of a leak or clog. Even if you need significant pipe repairs, if you have the luxury of time on your hand, you would have greater control over what kind of materials the plumber installs.
Only trained professionals should perform plumbing repairs, as they carry the necessary tools and equipment to fix and replace any damaged pipes. J.O. Plumbing offers reliable and professional plumbing repairs for residential and commercial properties in Melbourne. We are a team of trained professionals, with the right equipment and the skills to meet all the safety and health regulations.