When you turn on a tap in your house and either no water comes out or the pressure is unexpectedly low, it could be an indication of a serious problem with your property’s water main. As the primary artery of your home's water supply, issues with the water main not only disrupt daily life but can also lead to significant property damage if left unaddressed.
In this blog post, we’ll walk through how to identify signs of water main damage, what might be causing these issues, how to perform some basic repairs yourself, and when it’s time to call in the professionals.
Understanding Your Water Main
The water main is typically a larger pipe that delivers water from your local water supply into your home. It is buried underground which keeps it protected but also means it's not immediately visible for inspection. Knowing where your water main runs can be crucial for identifying and addressing issues quickly, usually detailed in your property’s utility plans.
Common Signs of Water Main Problems
One of the first signs of a problem is a disruption in water flow. This might be low water pressure or no water at all. Other indicators include unexplained puddles or wet areas in your yard, water damage or dampness in your basement or crawl space, and sometimes an unexpected increase in your water bill which suggests a leak.
Possible Causes of Water Main Damage
Several factors can contribute to water main damage:
- Natural Wear and Tear: Over time, pipes degrade naturally due to environmental factors or material fatigue.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can grow into and break pipes, especially if they are searching for water.
- Weather Changes: Extreme changes in weather, particularly cold snaps, can cause ground shifts or pipe bursts.
- Improper Installation: Sometimes, initial installation might not have been performed correctly, leading to future issues.
DIY Fixes for Minor Water Main Issues
For minor leaks or damage, there are a few temporary fixes you can consider:
- Clamp Repair: For small, accessible leaks, a pipe clamp can be applied to temporarily seal the leak.
- Pipe Wraps: Available at most hardware stores, pipe wraps can be applied around the damaged area to provide a temporary seal.
- Epoxy Compounds: For small leaks or cracks, an epoxy compound can be used to seal the damaged area.
However, it's important to note that these solutions are temporary. They can buy you time, but for permanent repairs, professional help is usually required.
When to Call a Plumbing Professional
If you're experiencing consistent issues, major leaks, or you don’t feel confident about a DIY repair, it's important to call a professional plumber:
- Major Leaks: Large leaks can result in significant water loss and damage. They usually require professional tools and expertise.
- No Water/Severely Low Pressure: This could indicate a major breach or blockage that typically requires professional intervention.
- Water Contamination: Any discoloration or strange tasting/smelling water should be checked by a professional to rule out contamination.
Prevention of Future Water Main Issues
Maintaining your water main involves several steps to ensure it remains functional and free from damage:
- Regular Inspections: Regularly check areas where your pipes are accessible, looking for signs of corrosion or damage.
- Mind the Plants: Be thoughtful about where you plant trees or large shrubs to prevent roots from damaging underground pipes.
- Protect from the Cold: In colder areas, make sure pipes are insulated to prevent freezing and cracking.
- Awareness of Soil Changes: If you notice changes in soil moisture or density around your property, it could indicate a leak. Monitoring this can prevent larger issues.
Conclusion
Water main issues can be daunting because of their potential to cause significant damage and disruption. By staying vigilant, understanding the common signs of trouble, and knowing how to perform basic repairs, you can prevent or mitigate many water main problems. For complex repairs and installations, however, relying on the expertise of skilled plumbers is crucial to ensure the long-term health of your plumbing system.
If today, you noticed an unexpected change in your water system's behavior, consider this information as your first step towards diagnosing and potentially solving the issue. Remember, quick and informed actions can prevent most water main problems from escalating.
