Water escaping from a pipe can wreak havoc in your house. Even a tiny leak that is left to drip day and night will soon rot away everything in its vicinity. A pipe that bursts can produce a major flood.

As soon as you spot a leak, shut off the water to take pressure off the line. Then locate exactly where the problem is. If the pipe is not visible, this may be difficult, because water can run quite a ways along the outside of the pipe, a floor joist, or a sub-floor.

Once found, repair clamps, or collars, can be used to repair small leaks. Larger leaks often require the replacement of one or more sections of pipe. It may be more economical to completely replace plumbing in older pipes, especially if they have a history of leaking. Copper pipe, considered the industry standard, is not immune to this problem, but can be affected by corrosive soil, acidic water, aggressive flux or sloppy installation. Major leaks are best left to Sun Devil's plumbing professionals who will ensure the installation is done correctly.