Whether you are aware of it or not, minor drips and drops from pipe leakage could do some serious damage. Though it may seem like a given that pipes need to be maintained, not everyone knows that pipe damage can occur year-round due to the elements alone. Whether you are planning to move within the year or plan to stay for years to come, staying on top of pipe maintenance and being aware of elemental threats can be essential. In today’s blog, your Allen, TX plumbers take a closer look at the impact of seasonal heat on the pipes in your plumbing system, including how it can lead to pipe expansion, soil movement, and low water pressure.
High Temperatures and Pipe Expansion
In secondary school, you may recall having learned in science that, as temperatures change, molecules expand and retract. This is why you are more likely to have your tire pressure light come on in your car on a cold day than a hot one, as molecules gather closer together the colder it is. The same concept is applicable for your pipes, and when temperatures reach record highs like they often do in the state of Texas, it can result in a process known as thermal expansion. When temperatures are cold, the opposite—known as thermal contraction—occurs.
The impact of thermal expansion and contraction is essential to consider when installing your plumbing system, as it can result in the linear growth of the pipe. Not only does this make the run longer, but it can contribute to property damage and even system failure overall. To learn more about this concept and what we do to account for it, give our team a call.
The Impact of Soil Movement
Another way high temperatures can affect your pipes and plumbing system is how they move the soil. When there is little to no moisture present in the soil and scorching summer days are prevalent, it is no surprise that the soil will dry out, shift and settle, or clump together. When this occurs, it can create additional weight or pressure on the pipes. Ultimately, this increases the potential for cracks, breaks, and leaking joints.
Low Water-Pressure Contribution
Increased temperatures may also lead to low water pressure. When the material exceeds a certain temperature, it may expand and cause mineral buildup. Over time, this buildup will become worse and worse, narrowing the pipe’s tunnel or creating sedimentary obstacles for an appropriate amount of water to get past.
Call Our Team Today
Don’t put off essential pipe and plumbing maintenance. To schedule your quote visit and have a repair and replacement specialist assess your pipes, contact Pro-Service Plumbing in Allen, TX, by dialing (972) 424-1402 today. We proudly serve businesses and residences in the Allen, Plano, McKinney, Frisco, and surrounding communities.