A lot happens during spring. Some people start getting ready to garden, others get started with large home projects that they hope to finish by fall. But sometimes, homeowners just want to stay up to date and keep things from falling apart. Regardless of where you are on that spectrum, this blog is definitely for you.
Your plumbing system has been working hard throughout the chillier months of the year. While pipes might not be frozen like they would be in some northern locations, they still could be leaking or corroding right below your very feet this second. The nice part about this is that you can usually tell when a problem is occurring, and our team is available for plumbing service in Tracy, CA if it’s needed.
1. Check for Leaks
When you head to your basement to check some of your plumbing pipes, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for leaks. They can usually be spotted in two forms.
- A leaking pipe will usually drip water that can be collected in a bucket for the time being. Don’t try to repair the pipe yourself, just call a professional and we can provide the pipe replacement or fix that’s required.
- Sometimes, a leaking pipe will only drip if an appliance is on or being operated. You can usually tell this is the case by noticing a puddle on the ground.
If you recognize any of these symptoms then we urge you to get in touch with a licensed plumber ASAP.
2. Look for Corroding Pipes
Corrosion usually takes the form of brown, red, or green rust on pipes that have been in your home for a long time. This is from the process of oxidation.
When metal is oxidizes, a chemical reaction occurs between it and the water that it’s interacting with, slowly losing structural integrity as it “rusts” or “corrodes.” The longer this goes on, the less likely your pipes will be able to handle even the smallest loads of water. Do yourself a favor and get these pipes replaced when you notice the signs.
3. Look for Old or Outdated Pipes
Old pipes can look similar to corroded ones, but they don’t necessarily have to be corroded to be old. Even if a galvanized steel pipe in one of your unused bathrooms looks shiny and okay, it might still be decades old to the point where the inside of the pipe has corroded or fallen apart.
Old pipes are the most likely to give you problems in the future, which is why we recommend going around your house and locating any pipes that seem to be old or outdated. By knowing which pipes are which, you can be aware of the ones that might fail more easily than others.
4. Schedule Maintenance
One way to deal with these kinds of problems is to schedule plumbing maintenance. During maintenance, a professional can take a look around your house for you and schedule repairs if they’re required.
Contact DeHart Plumbing, Heating, and Air Inc. for plumbing work you can count on.