Leaks are a common plumbing issue that can occur when you least expect it. But you may not know that leaks can happen underground too, especially during the summer. Read on to learn why summer presents unique risks to your plumbing and how to be on the lookout for potential leaks.
Thermal Expansion
Thermal expansion is one of the primary causes of underground leaks. This is because pipes expand as the temperature rises. When pipes undergo thermal expansion, they “stretch out,” which may cause them to fracture. The solution to this issue is to contact professional plumbers. They can install expansion loops into your property’s pipelines to allow for natural expansion without the risk of breaking.
Ground Shifting
Ground shifting is caused by soil erosion, construction, and even miniature earthquakes. You may be wondering why this is important to underground leaks. When the ground shifts, it can exert a lot of force onto underground pipes, which can lead to cracks or bursts. Even the smallest amount of force can cause catastrophic damage. A professional plumber can install flexible joints into your pipelines to lower the risk of a leak should the ground shift in any way.
Pipe Corrosion
Chemical exposure weakens pipes, a process called corrosion. Many corrosive chemicals can impact the integrity of a pipeline and increase the risk of leaks in the future. Corrosion can also be worsened by temperature fluctuations during the summer. To avoid this issue, be mindful of what you put down your drains. Avoid any type of over-the-counter cleaners that contain chemicals. If you want to use a drain cleaning solution, choose an enzyme-based formula instead.
Corroded pipes can result in serious damage and expensive replacements that disrupt your property. If you do suspect there’s an issue with your plumbing, reach out to a professional right away. It’s never a good idea to leave undiagnosed issues to linger, especially if they’re leaking water underground.
Excessive Water Consumption
Did you know the average American household consumes up to 300 gallons of water per day? With so much water being used combined with the intense summer heat, pipes are under a lot of pressure.
Plumbing systems have safety levels, which indicate how much water pressure they can withstand. If the water pressure is consistently exceeding these limits, it causes the pipes to expand, weakening them from the inside and causing them to burst. A professional plumber can help you avoid this problem by installing expansion tanks and pressure-reducing valves.
Be mindful of your water consumption. If you can cut back even a little, it can be beneficial to your plumbing and your water bill.
Don’t run the risk of underground leaks damaging your property; contact Gordon AC & Plumbing for professional leak detection services in Monroe, LA!
