A leak is quite easily one of the biggest enemies to plumbing systems everywhere. But what makes a leak such a feared antagonist? Well, there are a number of factors at play here. First off, even those leaks you may consider “minor,” like dripping faucets, can waste gallons of water throughout the months. These small leaks trick you into thinking they aren’t a big deal, and then the cost of your water use starts to add up.
Bigger leaks waste water too, of course, and can also do extensive damage to your property. These leaks can happen behind walls or even beneath your flooring. In fact, most leaks are hidden, so they can do a lot of damage before you even notice them. Since so much of your plumbing system is hidden from view, and since leaks can happen anywhere there is a pipe, it is essential you know how to spot trouble. Once you suspect a leak, you’ll want to get in touch with a professional plumber. But, how do you check?
By Keeping an Eye on Your Water Bills
Spotting a leak the moment you suspect one is key to mitigating damage. But where do you start looking? Well, your water bill. Remember, in most cases a leak can actually exist for a while before its discovered. This doesn’t mean it’s not causing problems in the meantime, however.
Sure you may not have visible wet spots on the wall or severe damp spots on your flooring, but the dampness created by leaks “behind the scenes” can lead to issues with biological pollutants, mold growth, etc. So if you notice your water bills aren’t necessarily matching your water usage, it’s time to give us a call so we can get water leak detection services on the schedule. This will enable our plumbers to pinpoint the source of the leak, or even rule it out if it is not actually the problem.
Listen for Signs
Everybody always says “keep an eye out for problems”—but what about your ears? Running water obviously makes a sound, whether it’s a bubbling noise or just water passing through a pipe. If you hear water running through your plumbing system even though no appliances are turned on, the toilet isn’t filling it’s tank, or nobody is using water in your home, you could very well be listening to a leak.
Again, pinpointing the exact source of the leak before it causes damage is in your best interest, so give our staff a call when your ears tip you off to a potential leak issue.
You Also May Notice Odors
Does your living space have a musty smell to it? If so, it may be due to damp conditions you can’t necessarily see. Remember, a huge concern with water leaks is the potential for biological pollutants to multiply—not just the physical damage resulting from water exposure.
If you smell a mildew odor in your home, it may very well be from a leak, especially if it is accompanied by either of the above-mentioned symptoms.