Do you know how to tell if you have a plumbing leak?
You might be thinking, “sure I do! I just look at my faucets and showerheads, or underneath my kitchen and bathroom sinks, and if I see water, it means there is a leak!”
On your behalf, we wish it were always as easy as this. The fact of the matter is, since most of your plumbing system is actually hidden from view, leaks can be hidden from view too, for a long time–long enough to do some serious property damage.
The good news that there are signs you can watch out for that you’re actually experiencing a plumbing leak, and then can call us to have it repaired promptly. Read on to learn what these signs are!
Your Water Bills Have Increased Unexpectedly
Have you discovered lately that no matter how careful you are about your water use, your water bills just seem to keep increasing? Don’t worry, this probably isn’t some evil plot from your local municipal water plan. It’s more likely that it’s a warning sign you have a leak somewhere in your plumbing system.
There’s Been a Drop in Water Pressure
This can pop up first at a kitchen faucet or shower, but reduced water pressure is always going to be noticeable. If it’s just happening in one fixture or plumbing appliance, then the leak might be isolated, or it could even be you have a buildup from scale due to hard water that’s blocking the water from rushing through.
If, however, the drop in water pressure is widespread throughout your home, this could mean that you have a leak in your main water line, which is a bit more serious.
You Hear the Sound of Running Water
Walk around your home and listen for the sound of running water, while having no sink, shower, washing machine, etc. on. If you do hear water running despite all this, you might be hearing a leak somewhere in your home, maybe even behind drywall or beneath your home’s foundation.
You Have an Overactive Water Meter
Again, make sure no plumbing fixtures or appliances are on or running. Now, take a look at your water meter, and notice where it’s at. Then about 15 minutes later, go check it again. If the needle has moved then it means water is leaving your plumbing system somewhere, and this could very well be indicative of a leak.
You Detect the Odor of Mold or Mildew
Did you walk into a room of your house and immediately smell something that seemed off? Perhaps it smelled damp or musty, or maybe you caught an unmistakable whiff of mold.
Unfortunately, leaks increase humidity, and depending on the severity and longevity of the leak, it could create some big mold problems. Really severe leaks have even been known to allow mushrooms to grow–inside the house. Please don’t ignore this odor if you detect it in your home–it’s always better to be safe than sorry!
For professional plumbing services, contact JD’s Prompt Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning today!