What Causes Plumbing Leaks

Plumbing leaks are common, yet many homeowners don’t realize they have one until the damage is already done. Finding a water leak early can save your home from costly structural damage, mold growth, and wasted money on high water bills.

But what causes plumbing leaks in homes? And more importantly, how can you find and prevent them before disaster strikes? Let’s break down the most common causes of plumbing leaks and what you can do to keep your home safe from water damage.

So Why Do Plumbing Leaks Happen? Understand the Common Causes

High Water Pressure

Your plumbing system is built to withstand a certain water pressure level. However, high water pressure (especially over 80 psi) can strain your pipes, causing cracks, weak pipe joints, and leaks.
Signs Your Water Pressure Is Too High:
- You hear a ticking or banging noise when turning off a faucet.
- Your dishwasher, washing machine, or showerhead leaks unexpectedly.
- Water hits your sink or tub with excessive force.
Solution: Install a pressure relief valve to regulate the pressure and prevent unnecessary pipe stress.

Corrosion

Over time, metal pipes deteriorate, and the corrosion eats away at the pipe walls. Rust, minerals, and other corrosive substances weaken the pipes, leading to slow leaks that worsen over time.

Signs of Corrosion:

Discoloration or warping on pipes.
Water with a metallic taste or discoloration.
Visible rust or greenish deposits on pipe joints.

Solution: If your home has aging metal pipes, it’s wise to consider immediate replacement before they start to fail.

Clogs and Blockages

Think a clog is just a minor inconvenience? Think again. A clog in your drain, toilet, or water line can cause increased pressure, leading to leaks in vulnerable areas.

Why Clogs Lead to Leaks:

Water backs up, putting pressure on pipe joints.
Accumulated debris and corrosive substances weaken pipes.
Pipework expands and contracts, causing small cracks that lead to leaks.

Solution: Avoid chemical drain cleaners that can degrade pipes over time. Instead, use a plunger, drain snake, or call a professional plumber for stubborn clogs.

Worn-Out Pipe Joints and Connectors

The weakest parts of your plumbing system? Pipe joints and connectors. Over time, these seals can deteriorate, causing slow leaks that worsen if ignored.

Signs of a Failing Pipe Joint:

Water puddles forming under sinks.
Musty odors near plumbing fixtures.
Visible water stains or discoloration near connections.

Solution: Inspect visible pipe joints regularly and replace worn seals or connectors before they fail.

The Most Common Places Leaks Occur in Homes

Leaky Toilets

A running toilet leak can waste hundreds of gallons of water per day. The worst part? Many homeowners never notice until their water bill skyrockets.

How to Test for a Toilet Leak: Drop a few drops of food coloring into the toilet tank. If the color appears in the bowl within 10 minutes without flushing, you’ve got a leak.

Solution: Replace a worn-out flapper, fill valve, or supply line to stop the leak.

Sink and Faucet Leaks

A dripping faucet might seem minor, but even one drop per second wastes over 3,000 gallons of water per year.

Causes of Faucet Leaks:

Worn washers and seals
Loose fixture connections
High water pressure wears down parts

Solution: Inspect and replace washers, tighten connections, and ensure your faucet’s pressure is at a safe level.

Water Heater Leaks

Your water heater is one of the most vulnerable appliances when it comes to leaks. Sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank can cause cracks, leading to damaged water connections.

Warning Signs:

Puddles near the base of the heater.
A hissing or dripping sound coming from the tank.
Discolored water when turning on hot water.

Solution: Flush your water heater regularly to remove sediment, and if it’s at the end of its lifespan, replace it before it bursts.

When to Call a Plumber for a Leak Repair

While some small leaks can be fixed with DIY solutions, major leaks require a professional plumber.

When to Call for Help:

Water damage is causing cracks in walls or ceilings.
Water running behind walls is suspected.
A leak is near an electrical source.

Need urgent repairs? Please call us at IronShield Plumbing at (352) 707-9035 to schedule an inspection today.

Protect Your Home from Costly Plumbing Leaks

Leaks are ticking time bombs in your home’s plumbing system. But with regular inspections, maintenance, and quick action, you can avert costly repairs and significant water damage.

Don’t wait until a small drip turns into a flood. Contact IronShield Plumbing today to schedule an inspection and safeguard your home.