When you see a plumbing leak on television or in the movies, it almost always seems dramatic. Water bursts from a pipe in the ground at full force, flooding the home or streets, or it shoots straight up out of a sink, comically inconveniencing someone in the home. But in real life, leaks aren’t always so evident. Sure, sometimes you’ll notice a dripping noise from the sink or even minor flooding on your property. Other times, however, a leak can do major damage before you ever know it, as is the case with pinhole leaks.
Pinhole leaks are rare, but when they do occur, the effects can be intense. When you suspect a plumbing leak of any type on your property in Santa Fe, be sure to call on the help of the experts at Roadrunner Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration. To learn more about this particular issue, read on.
What Is a Pinhole Leak?
Scientists are still uncertain as to why pinhole leaks develop in copper piping. Copper piping was used to replace galvanized steel pipes, which were the standard in plumbing installation before the 1970s. The galvanization, coating the pipes in a layer of zinc, was meant to protect the pipes from corrosion, as steel corrodes whenever it meets water and oxygen. However, this layer wore away quickly, and corrosion could happen at any time, leading to a full pipe replacement.
Today’s Pipes
Today’s pipes are mainly made of copper and plastic, though nearly all outdoor plumbing installations are the former. Copper pipes do not rust like steel does, but mysterious pinhole leaks can occur in rare instances. Sometimes, entire communities are affected by pinhole leaking without explanation. Small holes develop in the pipes, often forming from the inside out. Water leaks out from the pipes very slowly, which means you may not notice for a very long time without regular plumbing inspections.
This water can ruin the foundation of your home, and the holes can expand over time, leading to a big mess. Plumbing replacement and renovation costs run high when you wait too long to schedule repairs. Pay attention to the signs of a small plumbing leak, such as reduced water pressure or a musty smell indoors.
And call the experts at Roadrunner Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration for plumbing services in Santa Fe.
