Common Causes of Burst Pipes
Among the most common plumbing emergencies are burst pipes, which can cause extensive water damage to your home and lead to costly repairs. But understanding
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The DrainMaster team
Family-owned Columbus plumbing, drain and sewer company, founded in 1999. Ohio License #35036.
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Among the most common plumbing emergencies are burst pipes, which can cause extensive water damage to your home and lead to costly repairs. But understanding the typical reasons behind these incidents is crucial for preventing them from happening in the first place. As the go-to local plumber in Upper Arlington, OH, DrainMaster discusses what causes pipes to burst.
Freezing Temperatures
Water expands when it freezes. If this happens within a pipe, it can put excessive pressure on its walls and cause it to burst. Uninsulated or poorly insulated pipes in unheated areas such as basements, attics, and crawl spaces are particularly vulnerable to this problem. A simple way to avoid this emergency plumbing situation is to insulate exposed pipes and keep your home at a reasonable temperature during cold weather.
Corrosion and Age
Over time, pipes naturally degrade due to corrosion. This is especially true for homes with older plumbing systems or those with water that has a higher acidity or alkalinity, which can cause internal corrosion. The result is weakened pipes that are more prone to bursting under normal water pressure. It’s important to have professional plumbing services inspect your pipes regularly and have them replaced if necessary.
High Water Pressure
Just as a balloon bursts under too much air pressure, your pipes can fail under excessive water pressure, ultimately resulting in the need for immediate plumbing repairs. This is often seen in newer homes where the water pressure has not been properly regulated. As a general rule, water pressure for residential properties should not exceed 60 pounds per square inch (psi). Investing in a water pressure gauge can help you keep track of this and make necessary adjustments.
Improper Installation or Maintenance
Poor installation or neglect of maintenance can also be a contributing factor to pipe bursts. Shoddy workmanship or using incorrect materials can create weak points in the plumbing system. Additionally, ignoring small leaks or placing too much stress on pipes by hanging heavy items can lead to larger problems down the line.
DrainMaster is a local plumbing company that delivers quality services to both residential and commercial clients in Upper Arlington, OH. Leave your plumbing concerns to our team of experts. Contact us today to request a service visit.
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