Dripping pipes can be one of the most dangerous plumbing issues because they often go unnoticed. This article highlights a few causes of dripping pipes so you can carefully monitor your home’s plumbing system.

5 Things That Cause Dripping Pipes

  • High Water Pressure: High water pressure might sound ideal, but it can be a major problem. Too much pressure can destroy your pipes which can lead to them bursting or corroding. Eventually, this could lead to water droplets sneaking through. Some signs of high-water pressure are:
    • Your appliances are running louder than normal
    • You hear clanging noises when your pipes run
    • You seem to be running out of hot water quickly
  • Corrosion: Dripping pipes might also be caused by corrosion. This is usually a problem in older pipes because they are worn down around their edges or have heavy mineral deposits caking their interior. Corroded pipes don’t usually cause visible leaks, but rather small pinhole ones that often go unnoticed until it’s too late.
  • Aged or Cracked Seals: Aged or cracked seals can also result in dripping pipes, especially around pipe joints. One way to tell if you have an aged or cracked seal is to check around appliances like dishwashers and refrigerators. If you find condensation or small water puddles around them this is probably due to an old or cracked seal. However, this problem can usually be quickly fixed by either replacing the seal, wrapping it with plumber’s tape, or spreading plumber’s putty on it.
  • Plant Roots: You might be surprised to learn that plant roots can cause dripping pipes. Regardless of their size, roots can cause severe damage to pipes when they wrap themselves around them or sneak through small crevices and cause an obstruction. If the pipes are old, they are more susceptible to this issue. To prevent plant roots from growing into your pipes, make sure the outdoor pipe system isn’t near large trees or shrubs. If it is, you might need to consider whether it would be ideal to remove the plants.
  • Clogs: If there is a clog in your pipes it will block water from properly flowing through it. This will lead to a water backup, something which could put too much pressure in the pipes and cause them to expand and crack.

Dripping pipes can be a homeowner’s nightmare. They not only invite mildew but can destroy your home. Redwood Sewer & Drain in Santa Rosa, CA can help you by doing thorough inspections of your home’s pipes and quickly fixing any problems that might arise. Call for an estimate.