Tag: causes

What Causes Burst Pipes?

Preventing Burst Pipes During the Winter

Burst pipes can occur for a variety of reasons in different weather conditions. When pipes burst, the area around the burst pipe quickly floods with water or sewage. Not only do the lines have to be repaired, but often, the cost of repairs for the rest of the damage far exceeds the cost of the plumbing repair. Here are the most common causes of burst pipes and some steps homeowners can take to help prevent it from happening. 

Pipes Freezing

freezingOne of the biggest causes of burst pipes, especially in the winter, is frozen pipes. Water in pipes is held under pressure that the walls of the pipes must contain. As cold temperatures cause water to freeze, this pressure increases to the point that the pipe wall may rupture. While this type of burst pipe can cause major disruption, they are easily preventable. 

The best way to prevent a frozen pipe is by installing pipe insulation. Pipe insulation comes as foam pipe insulation or fiberglass pipe insulation and installs easily, blanketing the line in a thick layer of warmth. Always inspect vulnerable piping and be sure to replace insulation every few years. 

Decay and Corrosion 

corrosionBurst pipes caused by decay or corrosion of piping are just as devastating, but they can often go unnoticed until the water damage is spotted. No amount of insulation can overcome this problem, so it is essential to practice good corrosion prevention to stave off damage from a burst pipe. 

Decay and corrosion are causes of burst pipes, but they also contribute to pipe bursts in freezing conditions. Since water expands within piping as it freezes and puts pressure on the inside of the line, how much worse can it be when the pipe freezes and is compromised by decay and corrosion? To reduce or avoid corrosion in plumbing, always use professional plumbers for pipe repairs, never use chemical drain cleaners and take plumbers’ advice if they recommend water softeners or filters. 

Clogs 

Pipe bursts due to clogs occur when a blocked drain or pipe cannot handle the pressure of the liquid passing through it. If a buildup of debris, such as hair, soap scum, or grease, causes the pipe to become completely blocked and unable to allow any liquids or solids to pass through, then the pressure will increase and eventually lead to a pipe bursting. This not only causes flooding to occur but can also result in costly repairs and damages to the property. 

Homeowners can prevent this by having a routine drain cleaning schedule with a professional plumber. Having the drains cleaned regularly will help keep them free of debris and ensure that the pipes can handle the pressure of liquids and solids passing through. In addition, a professional plumber will be able to identify any potential issues before they become serious problems, making them easier and less expensive to fix. 

About Stanley Heating Cooling & Plumbing

Stanley Heating Cooling & Plumbing is a locally owned and operated business serving Moraine, OH, and the surrounding areas for over 15 years. They provide straightforward pricing, same-day service, and on-time arrival. Call them today for kitchen plumbing services in Moraine, OH. 

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Understanding the Causes of Low Water Pressure

Common Causes of Poor Water Pressure

There’s nothing worse than getting in the shower only to find low water pressure. One might pretend nothing is wrong for a few days, hoping the problem will fix itself. However, poor water pressure generally does not resolve itself. Instead, it needs insight from a trained professional.

By understanding the causes of low water pressure, homeowners can understand what measures could fix it. Some of the most common causes of poor water pressure include:

Leaky Pipes and Fixtures

leaksWater escaping the home’s plumbing system due to leaks can cause poor water pressure. The home’s pipes divert water to its destination. When there’s not enough water in the system because of a leak, this can affect how much water ultimately comes out of a faucet or other fixture.

Some causes of leaks include:

  • Corroded pipes
  • Intruding tree roots
  • Old pipes
  • Loose water connectors
  • Broken seals

Small leaks generally do not affect low water pressure in the shower. However, a small leak can become a larger problem over time. It can also lead to higher-than-normal water bills, mold growth, and damaged drywall. To prevent additional damage, homeowners should consult a professional immediately if their homes have a leak.

Severe Clogs and Buildup

Here is how clogs and buildup in a plumbing system can cause poor water pressure:

  • Clogs affect how water flows through the pipes: Clogs can consist of food residue, plant matter, and more that restrict the flow of water, causing low water pressure. One should avoid using chemical drain cleaners to remove clogs. These chemicals can cause irreparable damage to a plumbing system by “eating away” at the home’s pipes.
  • Clogs can lead to leaks: Over time, a clog can cause pressure to build up inside the plumbing system. This can strain a pipe’s material, causing them to burst over time. They can also affect valves and connectors, leading to dangerous leaks and poor water pressure.
  • Buildup: Over time, sediment can build up in the plumbing system. The sediment is usually harmless and is comprised of calcium and other minerals. However, if too much sediment builds up inside a system, this can obstruct the flow of water. In turn, this can lead to poor water pressure throughout the home.

One can prevent these problems from disrupting their home’s plumbing system by keeping up with professional maintenance, including drain cleaning and water heater maintenance.

Compromised Valves and Fixtures

ensure valves are openHere’s what homeowners should know about how fixtures and valves can cause low water pressure:

  • Fixtures refer to anything that uses the home’s plumbing, such as showerheads and faucets. Fixtures rely on functioning pipes, valves, and other materials to work. When a fixture is broken, it can cause low water pressure in that one fixture. So, if one faucet is the only place experiencing poor water pressure, the problem is usually with that faucet alone.
  • Valves allow water flow. When one turns on a faucet, they turn on a valve that allows water to travel through the system. A loose valve can cause leaks and, by extension, poor water pressure. It can also lead to higher-than-average water bills. Non-leaking valves can also cause low water pressure if closed or partially closed. Check the main shutoff valve and the water meter valve to ensure they are fully open.

About Stanley Heating Cooling & Plumbing

Stanley Heating Cooling & Plumbing is a locally owned and operated company serving its neighbors in Moraine, Ohio, and the surrounding areas for over 15 years. They offer flat-rate pricing, same-day service, and on-time arrival. Call them today for plumbing services in Moraine, Ohio.

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