Common Reasons Why Pipes Burst
This blog post discusses three reasons why pipes burst in the winter and shares tips for preventing this type of plumbing disaster. A burst pipe can wreak havoc on the household any time of year, but freezing pipes put the home at extra risk in the wintertime. Coming home from Christmas vacation to a burst pipe flooding the house is a surprise that nobody enjoys.
Learning about the common reasons why pipes burst can help homeowners to prevent a burst pipe from happening to them. A burst pipe hidden underground or in the walls can cause extensive property damage before homeowners even know there is a leak. Mold and water damage can be costly to fix and create a health hazard in the home.
Pipes Freezing
Pipes freezing in the winter can lead to burst pipes because water expands when it freezes. The pressure of the water expanding inside the lines can cause the pipes to rupture. Homeowners can help prevent their pipes from freezing in the winter by adding pipe insulation.
Foam pipe insulation can be easily added onto the outside of the pipes for a cost-effective and straightforward solution. Fiberglass pipe insulation is a more permanent and heavy-duty reinforcement for the lines that aid in temperature retention. Insulating the pipes not only helps to prevent burst pipes but also helps to keep energy bills low by keeping hot water warmer as it travels through the pipes.
Decay and Corrosion
Metal pipes are designed to stand the test of time but do not last forever. Even the most durable metals can begin to corrode if exposed to the wrong substances, and this decay and corrosion can lead to pipe bursts. The best way for homeowners to prevent corrosion from beginning to decay their plumbing over time is to be mindful of what gets washed down the drains.
A common reason why some plumbing systems experience premature aging and the metal begins to rust is because the homeowners used chemical drain cleaning products. Liquid drain cleaners should be avoided because they produce inefficient results, contain toxic chemicals, and can corrode the metal of the plumbing. Calling a plumber to fix a clogged drain is better than permanently damaging the plumbing system with harsh chemicals.
Clogged Pipes
Another reason why pipes can burst is because of a clog somewhere in the plumbing. When a drain becomes clogged, it creates an imbalance in the plumbing system. The entire plumbing system is connected, and an imbalance of pressure from a blocked drain could wreak havoc on the plumbing’s overall performance. Homeowners should try to fix clogged drains as soon as possible.
Having a plumber perform routine maintenance and drain cleaning can help to prevent clogs from occurring or clear them once they have formed. Plumbers have specialized tools for drain cleaning that safely blast away clogs and debris trapped in the drains. Drain cleaning also helps to keep the drains clean, so they do not smell.
About Force Plumbing and Heating LLC
Force Plumbing and Heating LLC is a family-owned and operated company serving its community in Holmdel, NJ, and the surrounding areas. They provide emergency service, on-time arrivals, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for drain cleaning or burst pipe repair in Holmdel, NJ.
