A burst pipe is the last thing anyone wants to encounter, this emergency cannot only cause significant damage to your home plumbing system, but also to your household items. Pipes most commonly become damaged during colder months, which means that during this time, you need to be extra careful about the maintenance and health of your pipes.
Below, we share some of the most common signs to look out for before a burst pipe surprises you:
Water hammer damage
If you ever notice a banging sound when turning on the water in your home, that is called a water hammer. The thumping occurs with is the movement of the pipes, and can be a sign of damage. You must consult professionals to come inspect and to secure the affected pipes to prevent any further movement, which can cause the pipes to weaken and break eventually.
Corrosion
While the pipes in your home tend to last a long time, they don’t last forever. Corrosion occurs after years of use and pipe corrosion is more common in areas with hard water. The pH balance of the water will cause corrosion as the coating of the pipes becomes worn.
The best way to deal with this problem is with water chlorination. While this does remove the bacteria that causes the corroding, it also can increase other bacteria in your pipes, which will need to be treated by a professional before the pipes wear out completely and burst.
Water Pressure Issues
If the water pressure is not kept at the correct level, a sudden increase in water pressure can burst the pipes in sinks and toilets. You can quickly check your water pressure using a water pressure gauge. The gauge will give you a reading of the water pressure in terms of pounds per square inch or (PSI). The standard PSI is between 30 and 50, and it should never exceed 60. If you notice your water gauge exceeds 60 PSI consult a plumber immediately to have, them reduce the pressure and prevent bursts.
Leaving Your Home for the Winter
During the holiday season and winter break, it is usual for many people to leave their homes.Depending on the area that you live in, this could mean that without anyone in it, the internal temperature of your home drops to a dangerous level for your pipes.
To avoid any costly repairs with pipe bursts, be sure to follow these tips:
- Leave your home heated at no less than 55°F
- Turn off the water in your home
- Drain any outdoor hoses and cut off water
- Have your neighbor regularly check your home
- Have a professional come to assess the condition of your pipes before you depart
A pipe burst can be an annoying disruption to your home. Even with following the advice above, pipe bursts are not entirely avoidable. Burst pipes can do much damage and do it quickly to your home or business. Burst pipes can be caused by anything from extreme weather, landscaping, worn pipes, or improper home renovations.
Whatever the cause, the Astar Plumbing team will respond promptly and professionally to repair the burst pipe. So give us a call today at so you can spend this winter season worry free!