Water leaks can cause significant damage to your home, especially if they go undetected for long periods. Homeowners in Orem need to be aware of the most common causes of water leaks in order to catch them early and avoid expensive repairs. At Valley Plumbing and Drain Cleaning, we specialize in water leak detection in Orem and water leak repair in Orem, helping homeowners detect and fix leaks before they cause serious damage. In this article, we’ll discuss the top causes of water leaks in Orem homes and how to detect them.
1. Aging and Corroded Pipes
One of the most common causes of water leaks in Orem homes is aging pipes. Over time, pipes made of materials like copper or galvanized steel can corrode, weaken, and develop small cracks or holes. This is especially true in older homes with plumbing systems that haven't been updated in many years.
If you notice higher water bills or hear the sound of water running when no faucets are on, you may have a leak caused by corroded pipes. Water leak detection services in Orem can use advanced technology like acoustic sensors or infrared cameras to locate these hard-to-find leaks without having to tear up your walls or floors. Early detection of leaks can prevent water damage and costly repairs.
2. Tree Root Intrusion
In Orem, tree roots are a common cause of pipe leaks. As trees grow, their roots can penetrate underground pipes in search of moisture. These roots can cause cracks or even blockages in your pipes, leading to leaks. Tree root intrusion is most often seen in sewer lines and water supply lines that are located underground.
If you notice wet spots in your yard, pooling water, or strange gurgling noises from your drains, roots may be the culprit. Pipe repair and water leak repair services in Orem can address this issue by clearing out the roots and repairing the damaged pipes. Regular inspections and water leak detection in Orem can help spot root problems before they lead to significant damage.
3. High Water Pressure
If your home’s water pressure is too high, it can place excessive stress on your pipes, fittings, and appliances. Over time, this added pressure can cause leaks to develop, particularly in vulnerable areas like joints, connections, and old piping materials.
A sudden increase in water pressure can cause more frequent pipe bursts, especially during peak water usage times. If your water pressure seems to be inconsistent or abnormally high, it’s a good idea to schedule a pipe repair and check for any potential leaks. Installing a pressure-reducing valve can help keep your pipes in good condition and prevent leaks caused by high water pressure.
4. Faulty Appliances or Plumbing Fixtures
Water leaks can also be caused by faulty appliances or plumbing fixtures, such as dishwashers, washing machines, toilets, or sinks. These appliances often have hoses or connections that can become loose or cracked over time. Small leaks from these sources can be easy to miss, but they can still cause significant water damage.
Check your appliances and plumbing fixtures regularly for signs of leaks, such as water pooling under your dishwasher or washing machine, or dampness around the base of your toilet. If you detect any issues, contact a professional plumber for water leak repair in Orem to prevent further damage and costly repairs.
5. Frozen Pipes
In the colder months, frozen pipes are a common issue for homeowners in Orem. When temperatures drop, water inside pipes can freeze and expand, causing the pipes to crack or burst. This can lead to severe water leaks once the pipes thaw.
If you’ve experienced a sudden drop in temperature or suspect frozen pipes, it’s essential to act quickly. Turn off the water supply and contact a professional plumber who can perform water leak detection in Orem and assess the extent of the damage. Preventive measures like insulating exposed pipes and allowing faucets to drip during extreme cold weather can help prevent freezing pipes in the future.
How to Detect Water Leaks Early
Detecting a water leak early is crucial to minimizing damage and repair costs. Here are some ways to identify leaks in your home:
- Higher-than-normal water bills: If your water bill increases unexpectedly, it could be a sign of an undetected leak.
- Wet spots or mold: Check for signs of moisture on walls, ceilings, and floors. Mold growth or damp spots near plumbing fixtures could indicate a leak.
- Unusual sounds: Listen for the sound of running water when no taps are on. This could be a sign of a hidden leak behind walls or in the ceiling.
- Water meter inspection: Turn off all water sources and check your water meter. If the reading continues to change, you likely have a leak somewhere in your system.
Water leaks in Orem homes can be caused by a variety of factors, including aging pipes, tree root intrusion, high water pressure, faulty appliances, and frozen pipes. Regular inspections and early water leak detection in Orem can help homeowners spot issues before they lead to extensive damage. If you suspect a leak or have already noticed water damage, it’s crucial to contact Valley Plumbing and Drain Cleaning for water leak repair in Orem. Our expert team is ready to help you detect and repair leaks efficiently, saving you time, money, and stress.
For more information or to schedule a service, contact us today!
