Burst pipes are every homeowner’s nightmare. Not only can they result in water damage, but they could ruin your home’s overall structure if not fixed in time. Below you’ll learn more about what causes this issue and a few ways you can prevent it.
What Causes a Burst Pipe?
Extreme Temperatures: One of the most common culprits of burst pipes is fluctuating temperatures. When hot or freezing temperatures surround them, they will expand or contract. This can stress them leading to small punctures that could eventually burst.
Connected Hoses: Sometimes, if you leave your hoses connected to an outdoor valve for a long time, the water stored inside could back up into pipes creating high pressure. If this is done during the winter, the left-behind water could freeze and cause the pipes to expand and eventually crack.
High Water Pressure: If your pipes are carrying high water pressure it can stress them. Ideally, the pressure should be anywhere from 40-60 PSI. If it’s too high, it will overwhelm the pipes causing them to crack and explode. Most of the time, high water pressure is the result of thermal expansion. As your home adjusts with the exterior temperature, the pipes do as well which could cause them to overreact.
Age: Another aspect that could result in a burst pipe is age. Depending on your home, your pipe might be anywhere from 2-40 years old. The older your pipes are, the more likely they’ve gone under stress and are wearing out. This could result in piece corroding which could cause the entire thing to burst.
3 Ways to Prevent Burst Pipes
Use Heat Tape: If you notice your pipes tend to freeze easily, heat tape is good to invest in. This product generates heat which stops the water from freezing. While it might sound dangerous, heat tape is safe and designed to only reach certain temperatures so it’s not a major fire hazard.
Monitor the Water Pressure: You might also want to watch your home’s water pressure. You can place a pressure gauge on a faucet for a reading. If it’s above 60 PSI, you’ll want to adjust the water regulator. Once you do, test it again. If you don’t see a difference, it’s important to contact an expert.
Replace Them: If your pipes are decades old it might be worthwhile to replace them. While this could be pricey at first, in the long run, it will avert future damage.
If you want to prevent burst pipes, keep this information in mind. For those concerned about their pipes bursting or fear it has already happened, contact RCS in Santa Rosa. Our team will quickly examine the area and get to work repairing any issues that might be of concern.
