underground pipe leakage

Unless your house is at the bottom of the unit, most HDB or condo apartment residents will not face the problem of underground pipe leakage, because only the water pipes of landed houses or landed factories may be buried underground. so as soon as we hear the underground pipe leaking, we can guess that it is mostly these two buildings,

Repairing the underground water pipe is not a small project, because it must dig a large and deep enough hole in the ground to repair the leaking part,

Of course, there is a better way to fix it, which is to convert the underground water pipe to an exposed pipe, if the owner wishes. However, this method is limited to tap water pipes, not for drain pipes.

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How to Detect and Prevent Them

No one expects their underground pipe to leak until it's too late. Water damage has already occurred by then, and the repair bill can be astronomical. In this blog post, we will discuss how to detect underground pipe leaks and prevent them from happening in the first place. We'll discuss what to do if you suspect that you have an underground pipe leak.

What Are Underground Pipe Leaks?

Underground pipe leaks are one of the most common problems that plumbers have to deal with. Several things can cause them, but the most common cause is tree roots growing into the pipes. Other causes include underground animals and insects, as well as faulty lines.

How Do Underground Pipe Leaks Form?

There are many ways that underground pipe leaks can form. The most common cause is corrosion of the pipes due to contact with soil and water. Galvanic or "electrochemical" corrosion is a form of corruption that happens when dissimilar metals come into touch with each other in the presence of an electrolyte. The more active metal (the one lower on the galvanic series) will corrode first, while the less active metal will be protected from corrosion. In underground pipe systems, the steel pipes are usually the more active metal, while the iron pipes are protected from corrosion by a coating of zinc or another less active metal.

Another common cause of underground pipe leaks is poor installation or damaged pipes during construction. This can include improperly compacted soil around the line, allowing the tube to move and break over time, damage from construction equipment, or even poorly made or fitted pipes.

Finally, underground pipe leaks can also be caused by changes in water pressure or temperature. If the water pressure in the system is too high, it can cause the pipes to burst; if it's too low, it can allow groundwater to seep into the system through cracks or joints. Similarly, extreme changes in water temperature (from cold to boiling) can also cause underground pipe leaks.

Signs That You Have an Underground Pipe Leak

If you experience any of the following signs, you may have an underground pipe leak:

  • Wet spots on the ground
  • Water pooling in an unusual place
  • Soil or groundwater seeping up through cracks in the pavement
  • A sudden change in water pressure
  • Low water pressure, especially when all other faucets are turned on high
  • Unusual noises, such as gurgling or hissing, coming from the plumbing
  • A sudden increase in your water bill

If you think you may have an underground pipe leak, it's essential to act quickly. Leaks can cause extensive damage to your property and may even lead to sinkholes.

Preventing Underground Pipe Leaks

Preventing underground pipe leaks is much easier than repairing them. The most suitable way to do this is to have your underground pipes regularly inspected by a professional. They will be able to identify potential problems and make the necessary repairs before they become significant issues.

The first step in preventing underground pipe leaks is to know the signs that a leak might be present. If you detect one of the following, it's time to contact a professional:

  • Soggy or spongy feeling grass in your yard
  • Unusual growth of mold or mildew
  • Cracks in your foundation or walls
  • Unexplained increase in your water bill

If you suspect that you have an underground pipe leak, the best course of action is to call a professional. They will be able to locate the leak and make the necessary repairs. In some cases, underground pipe leaks can be repaired without replacing the entire pipe. Although these fittings are generally quite simple to use, you will most likely have to replace the tube if there is much damage.

If you have underground pipes, it's essential to be aware of the signs of a leak and to call a professional if you suspect one. Additionally, regular inspections by a professional can help prevent leaks from occurring in the first place. Taking these precautions will save you time, money, and hassle in the long run.

How to Detect Underground Pipe Leaks

Detecting underground pipe leaks can be tricky, but there are a few ways to do it.

One method is to inspect the ground or your house's walls for damp stains. If you detect any, there's a good chance of a leak somewhere.

Another approach is to listen for a hissing sound near your drains. It could be a sign of a leak if you hear anything like that.

Finally, you can also use water sensors to detect leaks underground. If you have any of these sensors, place them near your pipes and see if they pick up any moisture.

What to Do If You Have an Underground Pipe Leak?

If you have an underground pipe leak, the most important thing is to find and fix the leak as soon as possible. If left untreated, a small underground pipe leak can quickly become a major water main break, causing extensive damage to your property and costing you a lot of money.

 If you're experiencing issues with underground pipe leakage, it's crucial to address related concerns promptly to ensure the integrity of your plumbing system. For a comprehensive solution to drainage pipe leakage problems, consider our specialized services outlined in our dedicated page on drainage pipe leakage.

Tips for Maintaining Your Underground Pipes So They Don't Leak

First, always check for any cracks or holes in your underground pipes. If you see any, make sure to repair them immediately.

Second, have a regular maintenance schedule for your underground pipes. This will help ensure they are in good condition and won't leak.

Third, if you do find a leak in your underground pipes, don't panic. Just turn off the water supply to your home and call a plumber to fix the problem.

Following these tips will help you prevent underground pipe leaks in Singapore. If you find a leak, don't hesitate to call a professional for help.

Understanding the interconnected nature of these issues is crucial for comprehensive maintenance. Explore our guide on concealed pipe leakage to learn more about identifying and resolving hidden leaks that may affect your plumbing infrastructure

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  • HDB Plumbing and sanitary fixture repair, installation, and replacement for both private residential, commercial, and industrial structures
  • Plugging of pipe water leakage
  • Pipe installation
  • Manual labor or machine-assisted clearance of clogged pipes, basins, toilet bowls, floor traps, maintenance holes, and other items to free them
  • Water taps, mixer taps, piping, bottle traps, flexible hoses, sinks, basin bowls, urinal bowl covers, flush cisterns and toilet attachments may be necessary.
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