How to Reduce Stress on Pipes to Prevent Costly Plumbing Leaks

For homeowners, plumbing leaks are going to be an unfortunate reality. Even in a small house, replacing leaky and worn pipes can cost a small fortune. However, with the right preventative measures, you can easily prevent plumbing leaks around the house. The easiest way to prevent it is to reduce the stress that your plumbing has to endure.

Soften Your Water

Hard water, otherwise known as water that has a high mineral content, may taste better than a softer alternative, but it is so hard on your pipes. Common minerals like magnesium or calcium build up inside your pipes that restrict flow, build pressure, and corrode the fittings.

While installing a water softener can be pretty costly, it is much more affordable that constantly having to replace leaky plumbing.

Lower Water Pressure

While hard water will cause leaky plumbing, it takes some amount of time for the minerals to corrode and build up in your pipes. A much more common cause of leaky plumbing is high water pressure running through your pipes. This added water pressure is great for showers, but every time you run your water, you are just one step closer to a pipe leak. High water pressure makes everything work harder from your pipe joints to your appliance valves.

Can’t tell if you have high water pressure? Pick up a simple hose bib gauge at the hardware store and attach it to an outside spigot. Normal water pressure will be between 40 and 85 psi. Anything higher than 85 and you will definitely want to consider installing a pressure reducer.

Preventing leaky plumbing is a great way to save money in the long run on your house, but if you already have leaky plumbing, you will need to get it fixed before it ruins your house. If you are in the Columbia, Missouri area contact Brian Wear Plumbing today for an estimate on how much it will cost.