Water leaks are more common than you think and can be caused by a variety of things. High water pressure can cause leaks, as well as faulty pipes, tank failures and even flood damage. Leaks can vary in extremity and cause, so it’s important to know why you’re experiencing a leak before you try and solve it.
Causes of Water Leaks
Toilet Leaks
These are often minor leaks, but can get worse if not resolved soon – not to mention raise your water bill significantly!
If you’ve noticed that your toilet flushes itself or continues to release water after flushing, you’re probably experiencing a damaged flush valve or flapper. This is super common, so try not to panic. Depending on the plumbing of your toilet, you may see a valve on the pipe, which you can manually turn to cut the water supply off. This is your first port of call.
If you’re unsure, it’s best to call a professional, so you’re not damaging anything.
Another cause may be an issue with the seal under your toilet. This can easily go unnoticed, but an unpleasant smell could be a potential sign. Make sure the toilet is attached properly, this can be the main cause of issues with the seal. However, if the problem persists, you may need to check the screws and bolts for rust and mold.
High Water Pressures
This is usually out of your control and will need professional servicing to resolve the issue. Your water pressure should stand around 60 psi, so any more than that and you may start to see issues.
High water pressures put a strain on the pipes, which can sometimes cause them to leak or even burst. If your pipes burst, you should contact professionals immediately for emergency help.
Faulty Pipes
Corrosion and general wear and tear are the main culprits of faulty pipes. Insulating your pipes can help with its lifespan, but your pipes will get worn out at some point.
Corrosion is often a result of an imbalanced pH level in your water. You can check the pH level in your water (which may have health impacts if ingested or used for washing) by using pH strips. These can be bought from most hardware stores or online – your pH level should be neutral, between 6.5 and 8.5.
Locating the Leak
If you’re unsure if you have a leak, you can use the leak indicator on your water meter. It will be moving in some way if there’s a leak somewhere in your home.
If you’re suffering from a leaky pipe, it may be obvious where the leak is. Dripping on exposed pipes indicates a leak and any water damage to walls may suggest an internal pipe is leaking. This can include bubbling of paint, uneven wall surfaces or stains and discoloration.
Resolving Leaks
Firstly, try shutting off the water supply. This should stop excess water flowing through pipes and causing more damage. Some leaks have simple resolutions, whereas others require plumbing services.
To be safe, it’s a good idea to hire professionals to come and help.
