How to Spot Water Leaks Early
Faucets are one of the most common sources of water leaks. Occasional drops might not seem like much, but they can surprisingly hike the water bill over time.
Water leaks can be a homeowner's worst nightmare. Besides skyrocketing the utility bill, water leakage can severely damage the entire house. Homeowners can prevent damage and subsequent repair costs by spotting water leaks early on.
This article will list ten tell-tale signs of water leaks and help identify them on time.
Unusually high utility bills
Regardless of the water loss amount and size of the leaking hole, a water leak will reflect in the utility bills. Even minor leaks accumulate over time and greatly increase water bills. Moreover, small leaks can gradually grow into larger ones, suddenly increasing bills.
Wet spots in the house
Wet patches on walls, ceilings, and floors look unsightly. They're also a great concern, often associated with water leaks. Minor water leaks might seem like spillage, making homeowners ignore them. But these can grow into bigger ones more quickly than most homeowners believe. In addition, wet spots come with mold that can pose a health risk and foul smells.
The water meter running with all the sources of water off
A water meter is a good indicator of water leaks. Typically, it shouldn't run while the faucets and house appliances using water are off.
When suspecting water leaks, please turn off all the faucets, washing machines, and dishwashers, record the water meter reading, and return to it after an hour. If the numbers differ, water leaks exist somewhere in the house.
Dripping faucets
Faucets are one of the most common sources of water leaks. Occasional drops might not seem like much, but they can surprisingly hike the water bill over time. A loose rubber washer typically causes the faucet to drip. Fortunately, homeowners can replace a loose washer quickly.
Uneven grass growth in the yard
Not all water leaks happen inside the house. Buried water lines in the yard get worn out and can leak due to shifting temperatures or soil, causing unnecessary water loss. Taller and greener grass above a pipe might indicate a water leak underneath it. With severe leaks, even puddles might form on the grass, or distinctive water bubbles can show below the surface layer. Fixing damaged water lines isn't a job for an average person. It requires professional plumbing services.
Loose toilet handle or flapper
Toilet water leakage is one of the frequently undetectable sources of rising utility bills. You might not notice it unless the toilet flushes when the leaks are already bigger. Fixing a malfunctioning toilet can quickly go wrong, so call a plumber if it gets out of hand.
It's always best to call an expert plumber to fix leaks. They can also inspect the house to prevent subsequent ones.
Water leaks can be a homeowner's worst nightmare. Besides skyrocketing the utility bill, water leakage can severely damage the entire house. Homeowners can prevent damage and subsequent repair costs by spotting water leaks early on.
This article will list ten tell-tale signs of water leaks and help identify them on time.
Unusually high utility bills
Regardless of the water loss amount and size of the leaking hole, a water leak will reflect in the utility bills. Even minor leaks accumulate over time and greatly increase water bills. Moreover, small leaks can gradually grow into larger ones, suddenly increasing bills.
Wet spots in the house
Wet patches on walls, ceilings, and floors look unsightly. They're also a great concern, often associated with water leaks. Minor water leaks might seem like spillage, making homeowners ignore them. But these can grow into bigger ones more quickly than most homeowners believe. In addition, wet spots come with mold that can pose a health risk and foul smells.
The water meter running with all the sources of water off
A water meter is a good indicator of water leaks. Typically, it shouldn't run while the faucets and house appliances using water are off.
When suspecting water leaks, please turn off all the faucets, washing machines, and dishwashers, record the water meter reading, and return to it after an hour. If the numbers differ, water leaks exist somewhere in the house.
Dripping faucets
Faucets are one of the most common sources of water leaks. Occasional drops might not seem like much, but they can surprisingly hike the water bill over time. A loose rubber washer typically causes the faucet to drip. Fortunately, homeowners can replace a loose washer quickly.
Uneven grass growth in the yard
Not all water leaks happen inside the house. Buried water lines in the yard get worn out and can leak due to shifting temperatures or soil, causing unnecessary water loss. Taller and greener grass above a pipe might indicate a water leak underneath it. With severe leaks, even puddles might form on the grass, or distinctive water bubbles can show below the surface layer. Fixing damaged water lines isn't a job for an average person. It requires professional plumbing services.
Loose toilet handle or flapper
Toilet water leakage is one of the frequently undetectable sources of rising utility bills. You might not notice it unless the toilet flushes when the leaks are already bigger. Fixing a malfunctioning toilet can quickly go wrong, so call a plumber if it gets out of hand.
It's always best to call an expert plumber to fix leaks. They can also inspect the house to prevent subsequent ones.
With over 25 years of experience, American Discount Plumbing has offered expert plumbing service and repair in Phoenix, Arizona, and surrounding cities at affordable rates for both residential and commercial properties. We are a licensed, bonded, and insured plumbing company offering 24-hour emergency service. We provide lasting general plumbing, water leak detection and repair, toilet repair, pipe repair, and water heater repair or replacement solutions. Call 602-883-2787 today!
