Plumbing leaks may not always be immediately obvious, but even a slow leak can cause major damage over time. When plumbers are called to fix leaks, they often discover problems that have been building, and in many cases, could have been prevented. Here are some steps you can take to protect your home from water damage and keep your plumbing in excellent shape.

How to Keep Your Pipes from Leaking

1. Soften the Water 

Hard water occurs when the supply travels through layers of rock and earth as it’s pumped to the surface. As the water passes by the rock, it collects dissolved mineral salts, calcium, and magnesium, which can build up in your pipes and fixtures and corrode the joints and fittings. Hard water is common in Connecticut, and many plumbers recommend using a water softener to prevent these deposits from causing damage that leads to leaks. 

2. Adjust the Water Pressure

You might enjoy a shower with high pressure, but keeping it too high can damage the pipes, joints, and fixtures. That doesn’t mean you need to suffer with barely a trickle of water, but as a general rule, keep the water pressure less than 80 psi to prevent damage and leaks. This may require the installation of a pressure regulator. 

3. Conduct Regular Maintenance 

Keeping your plumbing lines and fixtures in excellent shape can prevent most leaks from happening. This includes making sure that all connections are tight and secure, ensuring that the toilet is securely mounted to the floor, and flushing your hot water heater to remove sediment according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Keep an eye on the pipes under the sinks to make sure they aren’t leaking, and repair any loose tiles in the bath or shower to keep water from getting behind them.

4. Protect Your Pipes From the Elements

Plumbing leaks often occur in the winter months when temperatures drop and cause the water in them to freeze and expand. Burst pipes can cause significant damage, so take precautions to keep them warm.

Insulate the pipes in especially vulnerable areas (the basement, attic, crawlspace, and garage) using pipe sleeves made from foam, rubber, or fiberglass, or wrap the pipes in electric heating tape. If you’re heading out of town, turn off the main water valve while you’re away to prevent a major leak if there’s a problem. 

If you discover a leak in your plumbing, fixing it right away can prevent further damage and a huge water bill. For 35 years, McGuire Plumbing & Heating has proudly served New London County, CT, and is ready to help you with all of your plumbing needs. Their team of plumbers can perform a range of tasks, including fixing leaky pipes, HVAC repair, and winterizing your system. Explore their services on their website or call (860) 376-3388 to schedule an appointment.