When it comes to water damage in San Bernardino, most of us think of major flooding. However, one of the most common causes of water damage is actually slow and subtle, occurring over prolonged periods of time until it is finally discovered – leaky pipes. Because the majority of the plumbing in our homes is located in areas we cannot see, when pipes leak it can go undetected. By the time you catch the problem, the damage may be severe. From the experts at PRC, here are some things you can be on the lookout for that may help you find and resolve leaky pipes before water damage becomes a serious problem.
Water Damage In San Bernardino
Do you know what the water pressure going into your home is? High water pressure going through your pipes puts them at increased risk of springing leaks and bursting. It is easy to check the water pressure in your home – all it takes is a water pressure gauge. Purchase one from your local hardware store, and attach it to an outside spigot. Then when you turn the water on, the gauge will give you a reading on the water pressure as it flows through it. Residential water pressure should be between 40 and 70 PSI (pounds per square inch). If the water pressure going into your home is above 75 PSI, your pipes are more likely to leak. The good news is, this is a fairly easy thing to fix if you catch it soon enough. A water pressure regulator can be used to reduce high-pressure water coming into your home to a more suitable level that can be sustained by your pipes. Usually located close to the water main shutoff, the water pressure regulated can be adjusted to decrease pressure by adjusting the screw on the regulator. Turning in small increments counterclockwise will lower the pressure.
Minerals in water can cause corrosion to occur in the pipes and can cause build-up and blockages. One of the best ways to decrease the rate of corrosion and hard mineral buildup is to install a water softener. Your pipes will rust much faster over time without the use of a water softener. Water softeners eliminate hard water, dissolve limescale buildup in your pipes, and help to reduce overall water usage. This is good news for your pipes and helps to reduce the risk of leaks.
All connections from pipes to appliances are installed with seals that function as water barriers. Unfortunately, these seals can become weakened, loosened, and even begin to crack over time. Water will begin to leak through these connections when seals aren’t tight enough or strong enough. If you notice water dripping from pipes, check the seals and connections nearby and be sure they have not lost their integrity.
While these may seem simple or unimportant, they can make a big difference in preventing water damage from leaky pipes in your home. Don’t let leaky pipes go unnoticed or unresolved, and be sure to call PRC right away if you find water damage in your home.
When it comes to water damage in San Bernardino, most of us think of major flooding. However, one of the most common causes of water damage is actually slow and subtle, occurring over prolonged periods of time until it is finally discovered – leaky pipes. Because the majority of the plumbing in our homes is located in areas we cannot see, when pipes leak it can go undetected. By the time you catch the problem, the damage may be severe. From the experts at PRC, here are some things you can be on the lookout for that may help you find and resolve leaky pipes before water damage becomes a serious problem.
