When and How To Check Your Water Supply Lines

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

One thing many homeowners don't think of is their plumbing supply lines. They are just always there and functioning right up until they are not. Checking for supply line damage should be an important part of your yearly home maintenance. If you live in a climate with rapidly changing weather, you might need to check them more frequently. Remember, supply lines usually have more pressure than drainage lines. This means that they are more subject to wear.

Types of Supply Lines

Like most things in life, there are a few types of supply lines that your home might contain. All of these might be the cause of a supply line leak. These are:

• PEX - flexible tubing
  
• PVC - hard pieces of piping
  
• Copper - an older metal type
  
• Galvanized metal - only found in older homes
  
  

How To Check Your Supply Lines
If you have a bathroom leak, you obviously will need to check the supply lines. The better thing to do is check them before they start leaking and you wind up needing a flood or mold remediation; company.

Start by checking the actual connections making sure they are tight and not corroded. There are over 21 types of corrosion that can easily cause supply line damage.
You can do this by starting at one end of your water system and working your way to the other. You can find supply lines behind your toilet, under your sinks, on your water heater and to your washer.
Then check for cracks or breaks in the outer housing of the pipes. You might think that this can only happen with old pipes, but any pipe under pressure can develop issues.
Pay attention to small leaks or water dripping. Sometimes, there are signs of water, such as rust stains, damp surroundings and buildup around the line.
Checking for supply line damage should be an important part of your routine. It is easy to do and can prevent major flooding and damage to your home.