Is it condensation or leak?

loulou41

I just had an outside tap installed by a plumbing and heating firm. He did a good job but afterwards I noticed the pipes feel wet and there are beads of water on it, I wonder whether it is due to condensation or a leak. I did ask whether I should be concerned about leaking pipes and he told when he does a job he does it properly and that shut me up. I have also noticed that the washing water pipes feel very wet to the touch. At the moment I am just monitoring the situation. How can I tell whether it is actually a leak, I do not want to ring him and be told off? I also ask that open valve should have a handle and he put one with a lever, I have not seen that one before except on my gas meter. It is an old house over 100 yrs old. Thanks

SuzieSue

I'm sure he does his work properly, but anything can go wrong. A plumber once fixed a pipe in a loft and I asked him whether I needed to check it for leaks and he said no. Luckily I didn't listen to him and after I checked, I had to call him back to fix a leak.

Where is the pipe that is wet? Is it along an external wall or an internal wall?

Also, remember to turn the water off in the winter if any part of the pipe is on the outside as otherwise it might freeze and burst like mine did last winter.

loulou41

Thanks, it is on an internal wall along with all the pipes for the sink,dishwasher & washing machine. I have checked, it seems wet to the touch but there is no visible leak, so I guess it is ok.

themull1

Can you dry it with tissue and then see if the wetness comes back?

1984ReturnsForReal_2

If you see wet on the top & sides of a horizontal pipe that has no joints it is condensation.

anotherbaldrick

Not a bad idea to buy some lengths of foam rubber pipe insulation. This will stop condensation forming on the cold pipes and making the area damp and is dead cheap.

andy208833

Sounds like condensation to me, easy answer insulate the pipes