Hidden leaks are a real drag. First off, they’re hidden! You may not know about them for days, or even weeks, and by then they can cause some significant damage, including damaged flooring and drywall. Whether it’s a pipe leak at a sink, or a toilet leak in the bathroom, these problems can get pretty expensive and can become huge hassles.
Fortunately, there are signs you can watch out for that you have a leak. By knowing these indicators, you can give us a call when you first notice them and prevent them from becoming much more urgent and expensive. Read on as we uncover some of the most common signs you have a plumbing leak.
Cracks in the Foundation
We want to start this one with a bit of a disclaimer. If you have a home that’s decades old, it’s natural to have some small cracks in your foundation and the ground surrounding your home. As houses age, they settle into their foundation and small fissures may occur as a result.
But if you notice an excessive number of cracks and no explainable cause for them, then a water leak may be to blame. More specifically, you might have a slab leak. These are pretty urgent since they can do a lot of water damage beneath your home. Other signs of a slab leak in particular include warm spots on the floor and the sound of running water from beneath your floor even though no plumbing appliances are on.
High Water Bills
This one might be a bit subjective—doesn’t everyone think they’re paying too much for their utilities, after all? That may be the case, but there is something specific we want you to look out for. Are you paying a lot more this year than you were the same time last year for your water use?
If you are, and there’s nothing that can account for it, it’s a sign that your system is losing water somewhere and therefore increasing your “consumption.”
Visible Water Damage
The most apparent indicator of a plumbing leak is visible damage. When leaks happen, water begins to pool, sometimes in unlikely places. You might see a random spot on your ceiling, or a strange stain lining the bottom of your drywall where it meets the baseboard. If you think it’s a water stain, there’s a good chance it is!
Mold or Mildew Development
If you notice mold or mildew in the crevices of your home, particularly in places you wouldn’t expect them, then you could very well have a water leak on your hands. Water leaks increase the humidity level in your home and create the perfect environment for mold growth.
Running Water Meter
This one will require a little detective work. First, turn off all your plumbing appliances, and make sure no family members are going to use any plumbing for 15 minutes or so. Then go check your water meter. If it was running in that 15 minutes, you probably have a leak.
Roadrunner Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing is your trusted resource for Santa Fe, NM plumbing services.
Roadrunner Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing is your trusted resource for Santa Fe, NM plumbing services. Contact us today!
