They Grow so Fast: Leaks Can Become a Problem

A common misconception is that the only serious water leaks are the ones on a roof, and that really only happens when there are heavy rains and damage to the roof tiles.

The fact is, an unattended household leak can cost about 10,000 gallons of wasted water a year. That’s approximately 588 showers!

There is another way to put it… a leak is a warning that there is something worse coming on the horizon. It is always best to catch it before it gets too late! However, many people are not sure how to react, this article is here to help. 

From Little Leak to Burst Pipe

A tiny little crack never hurt anyone, right? Wrong! Having a cracked or leaking pipe can be considered a time bomb. As hot water of different pressures goes through a home’s plumbing system, it chips away slowly at the integrity of the structure.

Over time, the inner walls of the pipe will give in and rupture, leaving a dangerous flooding and a heavy repairment bill. The most common household leaks come from:

 

• Water Heaters - This occurs when the tank is old and corroding. Leading to a huge burst so it’s best to keep an eye out!
• Toilets - The water supply, or flange and wax ring. This can be damaging to walls so tending to it as soon as possible is imperative or puddling water can form around the floor.
• Washing Machines - A broken cold or hot water supply hose.
• Fridges/Dishwashers - Usually, this happens behind the machine and can go unnoticed for a long time. Inspecting it regularly must be done in the event that something sounds off. 
• Sinks/Showers - Occurs behind wall tiles usually and can be hard to detect.
• HVAC Systems - An AC can leak when it runs, but long-term dripping can cause water damage.

Saving Money Now, by Fixing a Leak

People often wait for a little leak to turn into a giant problem. A single leaky faucet can waste more than 3,000 gallons per year.

Leaks can occur for a variety of reasons, from misaligned washers and gaskets to loosened traps, to straight-up cracks in the piping.

Once the cause of a leak is determined, homeowners should take action. Most of these issues can be solved with a simple wrench for tightening or using pipe tape to seal a stubborn hole. It’s never good to allow these things to worsen, because it is much more cost-effective to repair than replace an entire broken pipe.

It is also important to remember to inspect the outside of a home for leaks as well. Most irrigation systems that are exposed, or even underground, are affected by extreme hot or cold temperatures, causing them to rupture. Underground or out-of-sight irrigation systems are more difficult to inspect for leaks and will require a professional.

Better Safe Plumbing Than Sorry Plumbing

A good way to weed out any undetected leaks is by monitoring water meters and examining the water usage bill. Inspect a water meter in a two-hour period where no water has been running.

If the meter changes, it’s time to go in deeper. The only way to be 100% certain that a house is leak-free is by calling in the pros. 

About PAC Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning

For Staten Island, NY professionals in the field of plumbing, heating, cooling, air quality, and even commercial services; PAC Plumbing, Heating, & Air Conditioning techs have been around as a staple since 1979. They serve from homeowners to businesses and large facilities, and focus on maintenance plans to prevent emergencies all over NYC.

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