Essential Tips to Avoid Broken Pipes
As the heavy rains start to roll in this spring, they impact more than just the basement. Excess water can change the way the entire plumbing system works. One of the major issues that can happen as a result of the rainy season is a broken pipe. But why does that happen, and how can it be avoided? This article will address this as well as what can be done if a broken pipe happens in the home.
Increased Rain = Increased Water Pressure
Excess rains during the spring lead to a lot of increased water pressure on the pipes. As those rains continue and the pressure builds, so does the risk of a broken pipe.
Signs that this may be happening in the home include:
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- Leaky faucets.
- Irregular/spurts of water pressure from the faucets or in the shower.
- Constantly running toilets.
The ideal water pressure in the home should be between 45 and 65 psi. Anything over 80 psi has the potential to cause damage. While many homeowners are unaware of their home’s water pressure, there are ways to monitor it other than watching for the signs.
A licensed plumber can install a pressure regulator on the waterline, which will slow the flow of water into the home and regulate the water pressure. It can also help stop the possibility of a broken pipe.
How to Avoid a Broken Pipe
Even when the home’s water pressure is monitored with a pressure gauge, a broken pipe can still happen. The good news is, there are ways to avoid that issue even during the summer months, using preventative maintenance is one of them.
It’s often a common misconception that a broken pipe only happens in the winter. While it’s true that they are more likely to happen in the winter (due to the expansion of the pipes when they freeze), it is not only a seasonal home emergency concern.
The most important way a homeowner can avoid having a broken pipe in the home is by having a plumber come out and provide routine maintenance and inspection services on a regular basis. They can look for small leaks in the pipes or potential weak spots, or inform the homeowner when the pipes should be replaced before a broken pipe can happen.
How Plumbers Deal With a Broken Pipe
While waiting for the plumber, the water should be shut off if possible. There is usually a main valve located somewhere in the basement, and homeowners should be aware of where it is prior to an emergency situation happening.
Once the plumber arrives, they will isolate the exact area that the broken pipe is located and likely need to replace at least that section. In many cases, this involves cutting through the drywall. This should always be left up to a qualified plumber, and homeowners should never attempt to do it themselves as they could ultimately cause more damage.
About Towers Plumbing
Since 1942, Towers Plumbing has been giving superior customer care and expert plumbing services in Salt Lake City. Their expert staff has decades of experience and the expertise needed to provide a long term solution, even to the most complex plumbing problems. They also guarantee your 100% satisfaction with every service.
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