What Is a Pinhole Plumbing Leak?

You likely don’t think about your home's plumbing until the unthinkable happens. A water spot on the ceiling, the sound of water dripping or a higher-than-normal water bill all signify a potential water leak. While a burst pipe or major leak may be easy to spot, a tiny hole, referred to as a pinhole leak, may be harder to find. Nonetheless, these smaller leaks can still damage your home and personal property. Learn more about pinhole plumbing leaks and what to do if you have one.

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What Is a Pinhole Plumbing Leak?

As the name suggests, a pinhole leak is a small hole in your water pipes that can be as tiny as a pinhead. These holes can appear in any type of metal pipe, but they are most commonly found in copper piping. Despite its size, a copper pipe pinhole leak still has the potential to cause considerable structural and property damage if not repaired promptly.

How Do Pinhole Leaks Form?

Several things can cause pinhole leaks, including:

• Pipe corrosion. The primary cause of pinhole leaks is corrosion inside the pipes. Over time, factors such as acidic water or elevated levels of chemicals can eat away at the metal piping and create tiny holes.

• Improper installation. Poor quality piping can make your water pipes more susceptible to cracks and leaks. Additionally, improperly installed piping systems can put undue stress on certain areas, making them more prone to leaks.

• Normal wear and tear. The age of your pipes may also be a cause of pinhole leaks. Minerals and sediment in the water can scrape the sides of your pipes. Over time, these scrapes can lead to tiny holes.

• Water velocity. Water can run through your pipes too quickly and break down the pipes' protective liner. This can accelerate the risk of leaks.

Are They a Problem? Do They Need to Be Repaired?

Although small, these pin-sized leaks can still cause significant damage. The biggest problem is that these small leaks are hard to detect and can go unnoticed for quite some time. If not repaired, they can cause serious issues, such as:

• Structural water damage to walls, floors and ceilings

• Damage to personal property

• Mold and mildew growth

• Increased water bills

• Potential for larger pipe failures

• Higher repair costs

How Does a Pinhole Leak Differ From a Larger Plumbing Leak?

The most obvious difference between large plumbing leaks and pinhole leaks is the sheer size. A pinhole leak is often smaller than 1/4 inch, while a hole in a burst pipe can average 1/2 to 3/4 inch or larger. Larger plumbing leaks are easier to spot, allowing you to take action faster.

Larger plumbing leaks may require immediate attention. For instance, if your pipes burst, you should turn off the main water valve to prevent further flooding and contact a professional plumber right away.

While not as urgent, you certainly don’t want to ignore a pinhole leak. Even a small water leak can waste hundreds or even thousands of gallons of water.

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How Can They Be Detected?

Pinhole leaks are often hidden behind walls, in the ceiling or under floors. This makes them very difficult to detect. Signs of a pinhole leak include:

• Unexpectedly high water bills

• Visible water damage on walls or ceilings

• Decrease in water pressure

• Sound of dripping or gurgling water

• Musty smell or signs of mold and mildew

You can also run these tests to determine if you have a water leak:

• Water meter test. Turn off all the water faucets and appliances. Then, check your water meter. The dial shouldn’t be moving. If it is, water is running somewhere in the home.

• Paper towel test. If you suspect a leak in an exposed pipe, wrap dry paper towels around the pipe. Check back in a few hours. If the towels are wet, there’s a leak in the pipe.

What Should You Do If You Suspect a Pinhole Leak?

If you think you may have a pinhole leak, it’s important to take immediate action. Contact an experienced plumber. These professionals have specialized tools, such as infrared thermal imaging and electronic stethoscopes. They can inspect your pipes and identify and fix any hidden water leaks.