Replacing water mains is something homeowners hope they never have to deal with, but pipes don’t last forever.
Though many DIYers are capable of fixing the plumbing in their houses, water mains are a whole other story and they require the help of a qualified professional. If you find yourself in need of a new water main, here’s what you need to know.
What Is a House Water Main?
A house water main is the main pipe that brings water to your home. In most homes, the water main runs underground from the community’s water supply directly to your house. This main line is different from the sewer main, which transports sewage and wastewater away from your home.
Common Problems with Water Mains
Water mains are built to be durable, but corrosion over time is normal. Here are some common problems that homeowners experience with water mains:
- Changes in ground temperature, especially extreme cold and frost, can cause holes or cracks in the water main.
- Shifting ground can cause a break in the pipe. Broken water mains often lead to flooded basements, and can contaminate the water coming into your home. If your water main breaks, stop using the water and contact a plumber immediately.
- Leaky valves are another common problem, but these are easier to fix. Tightening the nut on the valve or replacing the washers may stop the leak, but a plumber can help determine if the valve needs replaced altogether.
How Do I Know If My Water Main Needs Replaced?
A leak in your water main can be hard to detect, but it can also cause serious damage to your home and property. Water pooling in unwanted areas can lead to mold and mildew as well as increase your water bill.
So how do you tell if your water main is leaking? You can look for some of the tell-tale signs, like wet spots on the basement floor or hearing water dripping in the area of your water main. The simplest way to find out, though, is to turn off every water fixture in your home and then go look at the water meter to see if it shows any water usage. This job can be difficult to do on your own, so it’s best to call a plumber if you suspect a leak or break in your water main.
Replacing Water Mains with Trenchless Technology
In the past when a water main needed to be replaced, it meant digging a giant trench through the yard to lay a new pipe. Plumbing technology has advanced significantly since then, and now options exist for replacing water mains without the need to dig a trench. Trenchless water main replacement is when a small hole is dug near the meter and a second hole at the connection to the house, and then a new pipe is pulled in to replace the old, broken pipe. This process causes far less disruption to the property and saves homeowners thousands of dollars.
Quick Quality Plumbing Is Here
If your water main is leaking or causing problems in your home, Quick Quality Plumbing is here to help. We specialize in replacing water mains with trenchless technology, as well as any other plumbing needs you might have. We serve homeowners in Utah County in Utah, including Orem, Lehi, American Fork, and Provo. Contact us today to get started!
