Most plumbing issues can be hard to detect, and unless you’ve got an overflowing toilet, a major pipe burst, or a flooded basement, you might not know that you’ve got a problem until it’s too late. You see, most of your plumbing system is hidden from view, either underneath floors or behind walls. This makes it quite difficult to spot those seemingly harmless issues.
Pinhole leaks are a big deal, and often, they exist in homes for quite some time before they’re discovered. So below, we have outlined why pinhole leaks are a big deal, the consequences of them, and the signs that you’ve got one. So, keep reading to find out more!
What is a Pinhole Leak?
A pinhole leak is the result of what is called “pitted corrosion”, where a pipe corrodes from the outside in. It exclusively affects copper pipes, which are normally resistant to other types of corrosion. Pinhole leaks, as the name implies, are normally very small, only large enough to allow the occasional drop of water. However, that slow drip can cause quite a bit of damage if left alone for a long period of time.
So, What’s the Big Deal?
Pinhole leaks may not seem like too big a deal, simply because they don’t adversely affect your water supply. However, they introduce moisture into areas of your home that aren’t meant to get wet, often leading to mold growth and water damage. They can cause wood to rot and supports to weaken. Additionally, the constant dripping can end up costing you a lot of money on your water bills, as these leaks tend to waste a lot of water over time!
Learn to Spot the Signs
There are a number of signs that suggest you’ve got a leak in your home. These include:
- Soft spots in the walls or ceiling.
- Warm or cold spots near where the water is leaking.
- Unexpected spikes in your monthly water bills.
- Mold growth in unexpected locations.
- Loss of water pressure in one or more outlets affected by the leak.
- The sounds of dripping or running water where you don’t expect to hear them.
Why It Pays to Schedule Professional Inspection
Pinhole leaks are extremely small, and even with close inspection, they can be quite difficult to locate. Therefore, it is important that you schedule annual inspections with an Apopka plumber at least once a year. Your plumber will be able to find and seal any pinhole leaks you may have before they can cause serious damage to the surrounding areas. Only a professional plumber has the tools and expertise to deal with pinhole leaks as quickly and efficiently as possible.
And sure, there might be plenty of amateurs willing to service your system but remember, an attempt to save money could end up costing you much more in the long run. It is better to call a professional plumber and get the job done right the first time.
To schedule your plumbing inspection and repair services, contact the team at Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc.