Causes of Pinhole Pipe Leaks

Pinhole leaks in copper pipes can lead to a plumbing emergency in Atlanta homes and are typically triggered by a set of conditions that result in the slow wearing down of the pipe's interior lining. Common reasons for pinhole pipe leaks that can lead to a need for a plumbing leak repair in Atlanta homes include:

• High Chlorine Levels in Water Supply
  Excessive chlorine in the municipal water supply can speed up corrosion in copper pipes. This chemical reaction dissolves the interior surface of the pipe, eventually creating tiny holes that allow water to leak.
• Rust in the Hot Water Heater
  Buildup of rust and sediment in your hot water heater can enter your plumbing, creating circumstances that lead to corrosion in your pipes. This is most common in aging water heaters that haven't been maintained or flushed regularly.
• Acidic Water
  Water with a low pH level, indicating more acidic properties, can be particularly damaging to copper piping systems. The acidic water corrodes the copper over time, causing the formation of pinhole leaks.
• Bacteria in the Water or Soil
  Certain types of bacteria in the municipal water or soil, can be a problem. These bacteria can create a biofilm inside the pipes that quickens the corrosion process.

How to Fix Pinhole Pipe Leaks In Atlanta

If you notice plumbing leaks in your Atlanta home, it’s essential to repair the leak promptly to prevent further damage. Temporary fixes like using pipe clamps or sealants can pause the leak, but they won’t solve the underlying cause. For a permanent solution to a plumbing leak in Atlanta, consider the following options:

1. Water Leak Repair in Atlanta
   For isolated leaks, a professional Atlanta plumber can cut out and replace the section of the pipe. However, this is only a short-term fix if your whole pipe system is susceptible to leaks.
2. Complete Repipe
   If you’re facing multiple leaks or if your pipes are old and deteriorating, a complete home repipe is the most effective option. Replacing the entire plumbing system with modern materials like PEX pipes or quality made-in-the-USA copper will solve the problem for good and provide a quality, long-lasting plumbing system. This could be your best long term option for pipe leak repair in Atlanta.

Preventing Pinhole Pipe Leaks

Preventing copper pipe leaks in Atlanta homes needs preventative maintenance and, in some cases, a complete system upgrade. Here are some steps you can take:

• Water Treatment Systems
  Installing a water treatment system, such as a water softener or a whole-home filtration system, can help reduce the levels of chlorine and other chemicals in your home’s water, extending the life of your piping.
• Regular Maintenance
  Schedule regular maintenance checks with a plumber to inspect your water heater and pipes. Annual water heater flushes can minimize the accumulation of debris that leads to corrosion.
• Look into Repiping
  If your home’s pipes are over 20 years old or you’ve experienced multiple leaks, it may be time to consider repiping. Switching out your old pipes with a more durable pipe type like PEX can prevent future leaks and give you confidence.