Cold weather can be blamed for most cases of burst pipes in countries with severe winters. In Australia, even our coldest months are milder, so the water inside the pipes usually doesn’t freeze and expand. When pipes burst in Australia, there’s usually a cause unattached to the weather!
1. Rust/Corrosion
In the construction of most old homes, metal pipes were used. These metal pipes have a tendency to succumb to corrosion over time as the walls weaken and break due to the pressure of the water moving through them. Nowadays, newer homes are built using PVC or copper pipes that are rust-resistant.
If you live in an older home, the best fix is to replace your metal pipes with copper or plastic pipes – meaning you don’t have to worry about corrosion again!
2. Tree Roots
As trees grow larger over time, their roots extend further and further into the soil and the trees surrounding. Sometimes, these roots will grow until they make contact with underground water pipes. Water pipes are generally not strong enough to stop tree roots from growing into and around them, meaning the roots will apply pressure to the pipes, pushing them to the point of cracking.
The best preventative for this is to ensure new trees are planted as far away from the water pipes as possible. For any older trees causing issues with your pipes, the team at Plan B Plumbing are here to help!
3. Pressure
If your water pipes are under too much pressure, they are vulnerable to bursting. The optimal water pressure for most homes is 40-45 psi, and at most should not exceed 60 psi. The water pressure can rise for a variety of reasons – it could be that the water is being pumped into your home at too high a speed, or impairments in your pipes can cause water to slow down and speed up at inconvenient times.
No matter the reason, if your water pressure is high, you’ll need Plan B Plumbing to assess the problem, and make the repairs!
4. Blockages
When there is a blockage in your water pipes, pressure builds up and becomes too much for your pipes to bear. This can mean they will crack, leaving you with a burst pipe leaking water. These blockages can be caused by a multitude of things – hair, bathroom products, food and more. Be careful of what you’re throwing down the drain!
If you have a burst pipe, your first point of contact should be Plan B Plumbing. They can diagnose the issue, fix the problem and leave you with pipes in perfect condition! The team at Plan B service South Oakleigh, Oakleigh, Chadstone, East Malvern, Glen Iris, Bentleigh and South Eastern Suburbs. Get in touch today!
