Why is My Plumbing Sweating?

In many parts of the country, and especially eastern North Carolina, as the temperatures start to rise and the days become hotter and more humid, you may notice condensation on your pipes. The combination of high temperatures and excessive moisture in the air causes pipe condensation, commonly known as “sweating pipes.”

Sweating pipes are caused by high humidity levels. When the air is saturated with moisture, it can cause water droplets to form on the outside of your water pipes. If you have water on your pipes, but it’s drying, you shouldn’t have any problems. However, if the humidity is really high, condensation can be so much that water can begin to pool on your floors or inside your cabinets. The cabinets under your sink are where real damage can occur. These dark, closed spaces get damp leading to mold and mildew.

Pipe condensation can be frustrating, but here are a few ways to fix your sweating pipes.

Check for Leaks

Leaks must be repaired to get control over the condensation on the pipes. Ceiling stains, wall stains, and floor damage are indications that there might be a hidden plumbing leak. If pipes are sweating even though no water has been running, a hidden plumbing leak may be the culprit. For this scenario, you will need to contact the professionals at Eastern Plumbing to help you identify the location of the leak.

Insulate Your Pipes.

The easiest way to prevent your pipes from sweating is to insulate them. Pipe insulation is a tube that you place over your pipes. The insulation prevents moist air from reaching the cooler surface.

Use a Dehumidifier.

Reducing the level of humidity in the home helps alleviate pipe condensation. A dehumidifier can be used to diminish the moisture in the air and will further help to eliminate pipe sweating.

Run the AC.

Your air conditioner has a de-humidifying effect that can fix this problem as long as the sweating pipe is somewhere in your house that is temperature controlled.

When to Call a Plumber

Most condensation on pipes can be alleviated by using the methods above. The location of the sweating pipes may require professional remediation. Older homes may have pipes situated near electrical systems, breaker panels, or electrical junction boxes and pipe sweating near these fixtures is hazardous.

The solution for troublesome condensation is relatively simple and inexpensive. If your pipes have been sweating, don’t procrastinate too long. Eliminate the excess moisture before it leads to serious damage. Contact Eastern Plumbing to help with your pipe condensation and get effective and permanent solutions.