Leaks 101: Plumbing in Phoenix

In the blistering Phoenix heat, everything is at risk- plumbing-wise, that is. We get calls all the time for emergency plumbing in Phoenix due to leaks and other pipe disasters. Keep your plumbing in Phoenix under control with these tips for finding, fixing, and preventing leaks!

Signs of Leaks in Your Plumbing in Phoenix

• Brown or discolored water
• Low water flow
• Hot or warm spots in the floor
• Soaked carpeting
• Unusually high water bills

Pipes can easily corrode due to a number of factors. Just remember that the corrosive effect that the source of water has on a piping system does not necessarily indicate poor water quality.

What’s causing my plumbing in Phoenix to corrode and leak?

Water’s pH Level

The pH scale is based on logarithmic progression. This means a difference of pH unit represents a ten time change in the level of acidity. If the water in a copper pipe system is greater than 8, a layer of copper oxide will start to deposit on the walls of the pipe. This layer provides protection against corrosion, however the layer will begin to dissolve once the pH of water starts to fall making the pipe more vulnerable to corrosion. This can cause leaks in the pipes, and the leaking water can eventually damage walls and floors!

Oxygen and Water Temperature

In a domestic water system, the water supply is constantly replaced with oxygen rich water. Unfortunately, the oxygen in the water facilitates corrosion. At higher temperatures, water exerts more pressure on the pipe than at low temperatures and at a higher rate in hot water lines than in cold water lines.

Water Velocity

Corrosion is also inevitable if highly pressured water encounters obstacles or lots of pipe bends. It’s important to determine the source of a leak before you start to fix it. Usually electronic devices can be used for detection, but you may need to call out a professional.

How can I fix leaks myself for plumbing in Phoenix?

Method 1: Stop the Leak Until You Can Repair or Replace the Pipe

1. Shut off the water valve to the pipe.
2. Turn all the faucets on in order to drain the water remaining in the pipes
3. Dry the pipe with a piece of cloth and allow it to dry completely.
4. Apply epoxy on the leaking area via a putty knife.
5. Use rubber to cover up the leaking area and make sure that it is completely covered
6. Tighten a clamp down on the rubber and allow it to set for an hour.
7. Apply water resistant tape on the rubber for extra protection.
8. Now you must turn on the water valve and ensure that there is no leak.

Method 2: Cut out the Pipe if it has a Large Leak

1. Take measurements of the pipe and purchase a pipe of the same size.
2. Turn off the water and drain the pipes
3. Cut out the damaged pipe using a metal cutting saw
4. The ends of the remaining pipes need to be polished
5. In case of a copper pipe solder the new pipe; the other pipes should contain a union piece to join them.
6. The coupling of the joining pieces needs to be tightened in order to prevent leaks.
7. Turn on the water.

If these quick tips for leaky plumbing in Phoenix don’t work, give the experts a call at Deer Valley Plumbing! We are experts on all things involving your water lines. We’re available 24/7, 365 days a year- for all those emergencies.