What Causes Plumbing Leaks?

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We often hear plumbing leaks called the silent killer. But what are plumbing leaks, and why are they so dangerous to ignore when they happen in your home or office building? The answer is clear: a slow drip over time can become a full-blown flood if not dealt with quickly!

In this blog post, we will discuss some of the things that cause plumbing leaks such as faulty or corroded pipes, water pressure problems and more. If you have a plumbing leak and want it dealt with fast by professionals who care, call our experts at Miller and Sons. We’ll fix the leak and help repair any damages to the plumbing system.

The following are common causes of plumbing leaks in homes and commercial properties:

1. Temperature Drops

In Florida, temperature drops in the winter happen fast but can be back up to springtime temps by lunch. These fast changes in temps can cause problems, including pipe bursts when water inside them freezes and expands. When the water melts, it comes through the breaks in the pipes and can ruin surrounding cabinetry, flooring and appliances. When temps get low, prevent pipes from bursting by following our cold weather plumbing tips.

2. Leaky Plumbing Fixtures

Leaks don’t just come from hidden pipes within your home or business. They can also come from plumbing fixtures you see and use everyday. In fact, a leaky faucet that drips twice per minute wastes over a gallon of water in a week. Our expert plumbers and service technicians can fix leaky fixtures like shower heads, sink faucets, running toilets and outdoor hose bibs.

3. Roots

Roots under your home can be highly destructive, and leaky pipes can attract them to the pipe and make them thirsty for more. When roots are near a leaky underground pipe, plants can make their way inside the pipe and take root. Whether building a new home, renovating an existing home or dealing with an unknown leak, a plumbing expert can work to head off future problems or find the cause of an existing leak. Dealing with any leak early, including root intrusion, can only help.

4. Time

Your plumbing system can experience normal wear and tear over time as part of the natural pipe aging process. Things like high water pressure can damage pipes and pipe joints. Pipe corrosion can also happen, whether from the water’s chemical properties or from dumping things into pipes that shouldn’t be there, such as excess foods and cooking oils. Be mindful of the things you put down your drains, and if you suspect your pipes may be ready for an aging inspection, call in an expert plumber to take a look.

At Miller and Sons Plumbing, we’re here for all your plumbing needs, whether it’s for a leaky pipe, planned service or a plumbing emergency. Our veteran-owned family business is always here for you and your family. 

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