3 Reasons Behind Bursting Pipes

Bursting pipes are a catastrophe. The sudden release of pressure can cause water to shoot out everywhere, causing extensive water damage that can lead to the growth of fungi and bacteria. A burst pipe almost always requires plumbing services in Winnipeg to resolve, and the consequences can continue long after the pipe is fixed and the water is mopped up. Knowing what causes pipes to burst may help you to prevent it from happening.

1. Improper Installation

Sometimes the problem is that the pipes weren’t installed correctly in the first place. If the connections are not fitted properly or the soldering is inadequate, that can cause changes in pressure throughout the system. If there is a weak spot in one of the pipes, the change in water pressure may be more than it can handle and it may burst.

You should call professional plumbing services in Winnipeg if you believe that a problem with the installation is putting you at risk for a burst pipe. You should also call the professionals for any new installation or re-piping rather than attempting to do the job yourself to ensure that it is done right the first time.

2. Rust and Corrosion

Sometimes the problem wasn’t with how the pipes were installed in the first place. Rather, the problem is that years of exposure to running water have caused the pipes to break down. Metal pipes, especially those made of copper, galvanized steel, or cast iron, are susceptible to rust. Rust forms because of oxidation that occurs from the interaction of water and oxygen. Oxidation is a chemical process that causes the metal to slowly deteriorate. The weak spots that develop as a result may give way if the water pressure pushes on them too hard.

You should know what your pipes are made out of and inspect them frequently to look for any signs of rust or corrosion. If you see any, you should call plumbing services in Winnipeg to have your home re-piped. This may prevent a plumbing disaster from ever happening.

3. Freezing

The most common reason for pipes to burst is because of frigid temperatures that cause the water to freeze in the pipes. When water freezes, it expands, which puts pressure on the pipes. When ice is blocking the pipe, it prevents water from flowing through it. The backup can increase the water pressure, which could contribute to the pipe finally giving way.

As long as you keep your home thermostat set to at least 12 degrees Celsius, or 55 degrees Fahrenheit, it should be sufficiently warm to keep your indoor pipes from freezing. However, if the temperature outside is particularly cold or the cold lasts for an extended time, you may want to take some extra steps to prevent your pipes from freezing, such as keeping the cabinet doors under the sink ajar to allow warm air to circulate. Part of the reason that water in the pipes freezes is because it stays still for too long. Therefore, turning the faucets on slightly so that they drip very slowly and keep the water moving may help to prevent frozen pipes. However, this should be done only as a last resort as it is a waste of water.

While the indoor pipes should remain fine as long as the heater is working, any outdoor pipes around your home may be more vulnerable. You may need to insulate these to prevent them from bursting.

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It is far better to prevent a situation in which your pipes freeze than to have to clean up afterward. Find out more about all the plumbing services we perform.