How Corrosion Can Cause Invisible Water Leaks in Your Home
Pipe corrosion can be a silent but highly damaging problem. Small fissures and internal wear in pipes can lead to microleaks, which often go undetected for months or even years. These invisible leaks not only waste water and increase your bill but can also cause structural damage and moisture infiltration in walls and floors.
In this article, we will explain how corrosion leads to microfissures, the signs that you might have a hidden leak, and the modern techniques used to detect and repair leaks without destructive work.
The Corrosion Process and How It Causes Microleaks
Pipe corrosion occurs when the metal in pipes reacts with substances in the water or environment, gradually wearing down the material. This process can be accelerated by several factors, such as unbalanced pH levels, chlorine in the water, and temperature fluctuations.
How does corrosion lead to invisible leaks?
- The inner layer of the pipe weakens over time, creating small cracks.
- Corroded materials can accumulate inside the pipe, reducing water pressure.
- Eventually, these microfissures develop into continuous small leaks that do not immediately reach the surface.
- In pipes embedded within walls or floors, the infiltrated water may take a long time to become noticeable, leading to mold, peeling paint, and even structural cracks.
Signs That You Might Have an Invisible Leak
Although not always obvious, there are some signs that indicate the presence of a hidden water leak in your home:
✔ Unexplained increase in your water bill without an increase in usage.
✔ Damp spots or mold on walls, ceilings, or floors.
✔ Drop in water pressure in taps and showers.
✔ Small cracks in walls or tiles due to moisture infiltration.
✔ Sounds of running water even when all taps are turned off.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to act quickly to prevent further damage.
Modern Leak Detection Methods Without Demolition
Traditionally, finding a water leak required breaking through walls or lifting floors, making repairs costly and time-consuming. Fortunately, advanced technologies now allow leaks to be pinpointed without destructive work, providing an accurate and efficient solution.
1. Thermal Imaging Detection
A thermal camera detects temperature differences in walls and floors, helping to identify areas of hidden moisture. This technique is especially useful for detecting leaks in heating systems, radiators, and embedded piping.
Advantages:
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Quick method with no direct contact with the pipes.
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Identifies moisture presence without needing to break surfaces.
2. Acoustic Leak Detection (Geophone)
A geophone captures the sound of water escaping through pipes, allowing the detection of underground or embedded leaks. This method is highly effective in finding microcracks in pressurized piping.
Advantages:
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High precision in locating leaks.
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Works well even for pipes buried deep or covered by flooring.
3. Tracer Gas Detection
This method involves introducing a harmless gas into the pipeline, then using sensors to identify the exact point where the gas escapes, indicating the presence of a fissure.
Advantages:
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Works well on pipes of all materials, including PVC, copper, and iron.
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Detects tiny leaks that other methods might miss.
How to Fix Corrosion Issues and Prevent Future Leaks?
If a leak is found to be caused by advanced corrosion, it may be necessary to replace part or all of the piping. Some solutions to prevent recurring issues include:
- Replacing old pipes with corrosion-resistant materials such as PEX, CPVC, or PVC.
- Installing a water treatment system to regulate pH levels and reduce corrosive substances.
- Applying internal protective coatings to metal pipes.
- Regularly monitoring the plumbing system to detect early signs of corrosion.
Contact Us
Corrosion can cause microleaks that are difficult to detect, leading to silent infiltrations and increased water consumption. Fortunately, modern technologies such as thermal imaging, geophones, and tracer gas allow for precise leak detection without the need for major construction work.
If you suspect that your plumbing system may have invisible leaks, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Contact a professional to conduct an inspection and prevent major damage to your home or business.
