The bursting of pipes is a common occurrence in various properties and there are multiple causes of the same. Some of the things that lead to pipes bursting include negligence and accidents, among others. No one would like to deal with a burst pipe’s messes, damages, and expenses. Most lines in Melbourne tend to burst during winter. Burst pipes are both frustrating and expensive. It can cost you more than a thousand dollars to unfreeze and fix a burst pipe. However, the good news is that there are simple strategies you can adopt to help you prevent your pipes from bursting. This article aims to explain the causes of burst pipes and how to avoid it in the future. If you already have a burst pipe in Melbourne, worry not because Melbourne 24 Hour Plumbing can assist you to solve the issue.

Causes of Burst Pipe in Melbourne

Excessive water pressure

Excessive water pressure is among the common causes of burst pipes and comes because of pressure build-up that the pipe cannot handle. The excess pressure results from pipe clogging allowing only a little water to go through. The water being pumped from the source does not reduce, and it therefore causes pressure, which leads to bursting of pipes as it looks for a way out. One way through which you can tell there is a risk of your pipe bursting because of water pressure is if you notice a sudden trickling of water from your tap at unusually low pressure.

Freezing Weather

Cold weather normally causes pipes to burst. What happens during the cold season is that the water inside the pipe starts freezing. The freezing leads to the expansion of water. When the water can no longer hold the expansion, the pipe bursts. To prevent pipes from bursting, you can have insulation all-round the pipes. The insulated pipes will keep the water inside from reaching the freezing point.

Exposure to human activities and weather

If your pipes are not laid underground, they become prone to weather and human activities. Weather factors such as the sun can make the pipes deteriorate over time and as time goes lead to corrosion and cracking. To ensure that your pipes are safe, you should ensure that your piping is properly done by hiring professionals such as Melbourne 24 Hour Plumbing. Human activities such as construction can also cause accidents leading to the bursting of pipes. This normally happens if the piping is not well labeled.

Poor quality pipes

You can also encounter burst pipes in Melbourne if the pipes you installed were of poor quality or were faulty when you bought them. By working with us, you can be assured of installing high-quality pipes as we will advise you on the best pipes to buy. We will also inspect the pipes before laying them in the pipeline for faults and quality.

Invisible cracks in your pipes

Tiny invisible pipes can also lead to future bursting of the pipes. The tiny cracks expand over time and allow the water pressure to vent through the pipe, leading to bursting. To avoid this you should hire professionals to perform maintenance services once in a while. If noticed on time we can address the cracks and prevent your pipes from bursting. It would help if you did not neglect small cracks because they can cause expensive damages.

How to avoid a burst pipe in Melbourne

Covering of exposed pipes

When the pipes of your water supply are exposed, they get more vulnerable to freezing and bursting. This is especially the case if the pipes are situated in unheated spaces like the attic or basement or along the exterior walls. You can find various materials at your local hardware which you can use to insulate your pipes.

Ensure that there is a running tap during the cold days

This is one of the most effective ways to keep your pipes from bursting. Only a slow drip is necessary, you don’t have to leave it running at full blast. For best results select the faucet that is the furthest from your main supply line.

Open Kitchen cabinet and bathroom doors

By opening these doors, the heated air from your home will begin circulating beneath your cabinets and making your pipes warm.

Avoid adjusting your thermostat

Keeping your thermostat at a constant temperature throughout the day and night will make your pipes warmer, reducing the chances of freezing and bursting.

Other tips to help you avoid a burst pipe in Melbourne

• Use heat tapes
• Hire professionals such as the Melbourne 24 Hour Plumbing to check for invisible cracks.

If you have a burst pipe and are wondering what to do, Melbourne 24 Hour Plumbing can provide you with the solution you are looking for. We are professionals in all plumbing projects, including the maintenance of your plumbing fixtures and installation, fixing of blocked drains, hot water systems, gas plumbing, leaking taps, and emergency plumbing. We are available 24/7. Contact us today at 1300 931 384 for all your plumbing needs.