A leaky pipe or plumbing appliance is something that you should get repaired immediately. The longer it persists, the worse effects it can have. Just what are some of the dangers of a plumbing leak? This post details some of the effects of ignoring a plumbing leak.
Water damage
Leaking water can damage your interior and even affect the structural integrity of your home. It can cause brickwork to spall, wooden floorboards to rot, other exposed piping to rust, and electronic components to short circuit. Fortunately, companies such as 1-800 Water Damage and 1-800 Water Damage can help repair this damage. However, ideally, you want to limit any damage, as restoration can be expensive, plus a leak left too long could become a hazard if floorboards give way or electrics get wet.
Mold growth
Another big hazard created by a water leak is mold growth. This fungus thrives in wet and warm environments and will start to grow rapidly in wet areas. Mold spores can get into the air and cause serious respiratory problems like aspergillosis if breathed in. If you’ve already got asthma or a lung condition, you’re much more susceptible to these problems.
Pest problems
Water from a leak could also be a magnet for pests. Any still water could become a nesting ground for mosquitoes. Termites, cockroaches, and mice are also attracted to damp areas. This is another reason to put off a leak.
Water contamination
Leaks can also increase the risk of drinking water being contaminated by bacteria and toxins. As the pipe wears away, any material on the outside of the pipe can get into the water. The risk of Legionnaires disease is typically much greater if you have corroded pipes.
Pressure problems
A leak will prevent as much water from getting through the pipe, which could mean that there is reduced water from any connected faucet. Low water pressure isn’t just an inconvenience – it can also cause damage to appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers that are designed to operate at a certain pressure.
Expensive water bills
Not all leaks will cause the above problems – for example, a dripping tap in a sink won’t cause water damage or contamination. However, these unharmful leaks can still cause your water bill to spike. Many people underestimate just how much water can leak out in a short period and the effect that this can have on your bills.
Increased repair costs
Finally, a water leak will cost more to repair when you finally get around to it than if you got it fixed straight away. This is because the pipe is likely to get more corroded the longer the leak persists. This could result in extra sections of plumbing being damaged and needing to be replaced.
Conclusion
Many emergency plumbers are free to call out 24/7 – they can get to your home as soon as possible and tackle the leak. Some can offer payment installment plans to spread out the cost. Alternatively, you can always take out a loan or seek help from a friend or family.
Turn off your home’s supply of water to reduce any damage until the plumber arrives. While some leaks can be put off for weeks without causing major problems, some only take a couple of days to do major damage, which is why it’s important to act fast.
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