Pipe Leak Frequently Asked Questions

As a Portland homeowner, you’ve experienced your share of excess water! So you probably at least know the basics about water leaks. For instance, when you know you have one, you have to call in a plumber immediately. But the facts are that there’s so much more to them than that, and you deserve to know all the facts. So read on!

What causes pipe leaks?

The most common causes of leaks that we encounter are leaking toilet flappers, dripping faucets, water heaters with faulty tanks, and other valve failures. Fortunately, these are pretty easy fixes for our leak experts. Other times, though, your leak will be found to be more serious. In these cases, it might be traced back to a burst pipe or sewer main leak. In those cases, the correction may be more difficult – but 3 Mountains Plumbing can handle it no matter how extensive.

How much water might I be wasting if I leak?

Bad pipe leaks can account for about 10,000 gallons of wastewater in the home every year. For a better perspective on just how much water that is – 10,000 gallons is enough to fill a swimming pool!

So what do I need to know about how to spot a leak?

Fortunately, there are a few easy ways for you to determine whether or not you leak into your home – if you have an unusually high-water bill, if your water meter is changing with no fixtures turned on, or if your toilet is not functioning properly. If you have a slab leak, you’ll notice things like mold growing under the carpets, wet or hot spots on the floor, and the sound of running water even though everything is off.

I know I leak, but I can’t find it. How will 3 Mountains Plumbing track it down for me?

At 3 Mountains Plumbing, we have all the latest in leak detection equipment to find the source of the leak quickly and efficiently. We will use one of four methods – ultrasonic detection, video camera inspection, infrared, and smoke inspection. With one of these four, we will find your leak guaranteed or it’s free!

Once we know where the leak is, how will 3 Mountains Plumbing repair it?

Well, we have three options – traditional repair which requires excavation of your landscaping, pipe bursting, or slip lining. We can’t completely rule out the traditional method because sometimes there are some tough areas to get to and we need to dig to reach the pipes. However, if ever possible, we will always go with the two non-invasive approaches. Pipe bursting is when we send a piece of equipment into the pipes so it can tear apart and push aside the old plumbing. Then, we attach new plumbing to the end of the device and pull it through the void. Slip lining involves putting a smaller pipe within your existing pipe so that water flows more freely.

For any more water leak questions, feel free to call our experts at 3 Mountains Plumbing today!

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