Mild to severe water leaks can cause structural damage and mold growth in homes. This is why it is critical to respond quickly to the signs of a water leak. To help you prevent water damage and foundation issues, we have created an outline of five types of water leaks, ways to find leaks, and the process of responding to plumbing issues.
Table of Contents
Common Causes of Water Leaks
Protect your home from potential water damage with a comprehensive understanding of five of the most common types of water leaks.
1. Water Softener Leaks
Water softener leaks can reduce system efficiency and cause potential water damage along with costly repairs. These leaks often occur in various components of the water-softening system, including valve and connector points, brine tanks, resin tanks, bypass valves, and hoses or tubing.
2. Water Supply Line Leaks
Water supply line leaks can cause significant damage in your house and increase water bills if left unchecked. These leaks often occur due to pipe corrosion, joint and connector failures, frozen pipes, high water pressure, and external damage to the plumbing system.
3. Pool and Foundation Leaks
Pool and foundation leaks can lead to severe structural damage, costly repairs, and an unsafe living environment if not addressed promptly. Pool leaks often result from damaged pool liners, cracked or deteriorated pool shells, or faulty plumbing systems.
On the other hand, foundation leaks can occur due to poor drainage, hydrostatic pressure, or soil movement, causing cracks and water intrusion.
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4. Faucet, Fixture, and Tub Leaks
Faucet, fixture, and tub leaks are common household problems that can lead to water waste, increased utility bills, and potential damage to your property. These types of water leaks in houses can be caused by worn-out or damaged components, such as valves, seals, gaskets, or loose connections in faucets and fixtures. Tub leaks can occur due to cracks, damaged seals, or worn-out drain components.
5. Toilet Leaks
Toilet leaks are a common household issue that can lead to increased water bills, damage, and potential health hazards if not addressed promptly. There are five main types of toilet leaks: flange leaks, tank-to-bowl leaks, fill valve leaks, wax ring leaks, and supply line leaks. Reach out to a professional plumber to receive support with a toilet leak in your bathroom.
How to Find Water Leaks in Homes
Water leaks can lead to wasted resources, property damage, and the proliferation of unwanted organic growth. In addition, detecting leaks can be challenging due to the concealed nature of most residential pipework. Let’s explore the steps you can take to find a water leak in your house by analyzing the causes of leaks and ways to prevent damage.
Broken Seals
While installing your appliances, contractors place seals around all water connections. These seals can also be found in other locations, such as your dishwasher door. As your appliances age, the seals may deteriorate or become damaged. Condensation on your appliance or pooling water nearby may indicate a compromised seal.
Clogged Water Lines
While numerous clogged drains merely result in minor inconveniences, specific blockages can cause overflowing or ruptured pipes. For instance, obstructed air handler drain pans or gutters can frequently lead to significant water damage. Ensure regular maintenance and cleanliness of your gutters and HVAC drain to avert severe clogs.
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Corrosion
Your plumbing system may experience rust and corrosion near the middle to end of its lifespan. Pipes behind your walls or near your foundation can start to deteriorate for a variety of reasons. An easy way to find water leaks in your home is to inspect your drywall, cabinets, and appliances.
If you notice a pool of water near your dishwasher or a stain on your drywall, this is a sign of a damaged water line or pipe connection. Consult a plumber to evaluate the damage. If you have an older plumbing system, it’s wise to consider upgrading the pipes susceptible to corrosion with more contemporary materials.
Damaged Pipe Joints
The points of connection in your pipes are typically the most vulnerable areas. As time passes, pipe joints may weaken, leading to leaks. Regrettably, these joints are often not easily observable. When using hot water, your pipe joints are likely under considerable strain if you experience noisy pipes emitting ticking or banging sounds.
Excess Water Pressure
While high water pressure might be enjoyable, too much or inconsistent pressure can stress your pipes. Pipes and faucets can only tolerate a certain water pressure threshold. Exceeding this limit could result in leaks.
Water Leak Repair and Detection Services in Newark, NJ, and Other Areas
If you notice a water leak in your home, give our staff a call at (732) 638-4317 to book an appointment. Our team of emergency plumbers in Paterson, NJ offer exceptional water line repair and replacement services for homeowners. Our team of skilled professionals utilizes advanced technology to accurately locate and resolve leaks, ensuring your home remains safe and damage-free.
For over 25 years, homeowners have trusted our team to keep their plumbing systems in top shape. In addition to offering support for damaged water lines, our technicians offer other types of plumbing services such as gas leak repair, water heater installation, drain clearing, and sump pump replacement. Our experienced technicians are committed to providing top-notch service, efficiently addressing any issues, and restoring the water supply in your home in no time.