How to Identify and Fix Leaking Drains

Maybe you have also seen some strange puddles in odd places, such under the bathroom floor or next to your sink. These are the obvious symptoms of a drain leak, and if you ignore them, you can be in for such major headaches — not to mention a high water bill!

Drain repair and prevention is easier than it sounds with the correct equipment, some basic knowledge, and (most reliable you can count on) the assistance of a reliable leak detection service

In this article, we will examine the most typical reasons for leaking drains, provide instructions on how to identify and repair them, and cover some preventative measures as well. Prepared to deal with those sneaky leaks? Let’s dive right in! 

What are the Common Causes of Leaking Drains?

If you’ve ever dealt with a leaky drain, then you know just how frustrating it can be. But what’s the real problem causing all this trouble in the first place?

Below are some of the most common causes:

• A Leaking Sink Drain. The rubber seals or connectors under your sink may wear out or become loose with time. Owing to this, rather than water just flowing freely right through the pipes, the water actually drips down them. This is normally fixable with routine checks and tightened connections. 
• Burst Pipe. Many times, this is not a problem with the drain at all, but rather with the pipes that lead up to it. Freezing temperatures, outdated plumbing materials, or unexpected increases in system pressure are all potential causes of a burst pipe.
• Wear and Tear on Older Drains. Just like anything else in your home, drains and pipes age. With time, corrosion, cracks, and joint failures become more common. If you’ve got an older home, this could be a major reason why you’re dealing with a leaking sink drain or other plumbing woes.
• Blockages and Backups. Blockages from food debris, grease, hair, or other items can cause pressure to build up in your pipes. When that pressure has nowhere to go, it can lead to leaks, especially at weak spots in the system. 

Understanding the cause of your leaking drains is essential to picking the right fix. If one of these sounds familiar, you’re already ahead of the game. Keep reading! In the next section, we will show you how to pinpoint the specific problem and fix it!

How to Find and Fix Leaking Drains?

Finding the source of the leak is the first step in addressing any plumbing problem, but it is particularly important when dealing with sink drain pipe leaking at connection or any other type of leak. 

Once you know what is causing it, you’ll be able to take the right steps to eliminate the problem and get rid of that irritating drip!

1. Spotting the Signs

Before reaching for any tools, it’s crucial to accurately locate the source of the leak. This is often easier said than done, especially if it’s an underground water leak location or hidden behind a wall. 

To pinpoint issues, turn on your taps and watch closely for drips around the sink connections or puddles forming in unexpected areas.

If you don’t see visible leaks, try turning off all other water sources and listen closely for the sound of dripping or rushing water behind walls or in hidden pipes.

For harder-to-detect leaks, like an underground water leak location, consider using specialised tools like a moisture meter or enlisting an expert plumber for precise results.

2. Assess the Damage

Once you’ve located the leak, it’s time to assess how bad it is. Here’s a breakdown of common fixes:

• Loose Connections. Tighten the nuts or bolts around the drain connections to stop the leak. A plumber’s wrench or adjustable pliers will suffice.
• Damaged Pipes or Seals. If you notice cracks in the pipes or worn seals, it’s time to replace them. You can do this yourself if you have the necessary tools, but if the damage is extensive, it is strongly advised to call in a professional
• Clogs. Leaks due to blocked drain can usually be resolved with the use of plunger or drain snake. These tools come in handy to clear the obstruction. 

If you suspect any underground water leak location, the repair can be more intensive. For such a case, it would be better to seek professional help as it might require pipe relining or replacement.

While you’re at it, inspect any pipes around it for wear and tear to avoid issues in the future.

3. Testing Your Fixes

Finally, once the repairs are done, test the system out by running water through the pipes looking for drips and checking the water pressure. Make sure everything is sealed and operating properly.

Leaks range in severity from a quick DIY fix to a job requiring professional help; either way, promptness in addressing them would save you time, money, and stress.

Now that you’ve got the steps down, remember: if the job feels overwhelming or if the leak is difficult to reach, it’s always a good idea to call a plumber for help. They will make sure the job gets done right!

How to Prevent Leaking Drains From Recurring? 

Fixing a drain leak is one thing, but preventing it from happening again? That should be the ultimate goal for every homeowner who dealt with the issue. 

Follow these precautionary measures to keep leaking drains at bay. A little care and attention today can save you from costly repairs tomorrow!

1. Don’t Flush Random Items

We all know that drains are not garbage cans, but sometimes it can easily be forgotten.

Try to avoid pouring cooking grease, coffee grounds, wipes, and other similar items that break down poorly into your sink or toilet.

These could cause blockages, raise pressure in pipes, and have leaks after some time. Stick to good ol’ things that are meant for the system like water, soap, and waste.

2. Schedule Routine Plumbing Maintenance

A professional plumber can check out your system, tighten loose fittings, and find those weak spots that tend to become big leaks.

Consider this a type of health check-up for your house pipes: small fixes now mean fewer headaches later.

3. Inspect and Replace Seals

Rubber gaskets, washers, and seals have a lifespan. They deteriorate with age, but are relatively inexpensive to replace, much cheaper than the potential major damage resulting from leaks.

Make it routine to check these at least once a year, especially those under sinks and at the joints of pipes.

4. Clean Your Drains Regularly

Don’t allow gunk of any kind to build up in your drains. Install a drain strainer in each to catch everything that might be going down, and every so often, make a practice of flushing your pipes with hot water and natural cleaning agents like baking soda and vinegar.

That keeps the mechanisms flowing, guaranteeing less manpower is taken by leaks because of blockages in their paths. 

5. Watch Out for Early Warning Signs

Since most leaks originate well beneath the surface, it’s best to catch them early on. Some things to look out for are dripping faucets and slow drainages, among other strange puddles.

The little problems you try to get to quickly will save you from more-bigger, costlier-repairs.

Conclusion

Preventing water damage and hassle to your property from leaking drains is possible if you know what causes them, how to recognise them, and how to fix them correctly.

Feeling overwhelmed or in need of some expert guidance? Our expertise lies in this area! If you are experiencing any kind of plumbing or drain problem, don’t hesitate to call Neighbourhood Plumbing. Whatever you need, from professional leak detection to extensive repairs, we provide it all.

Contact us today and we can assist you in permanently eliminating drain leaks!