Signs That Show Your Home Has a Plumbing leak
Plumbing leaks, even small ones, can cause considerable damage to the home. Not only that, but they can waste an immense amount of water as well. Homeowners are now in an era where water conservation is key for the continued well being of planet Earth, so it is the responsibility of each one to know the signs of a potential leak.
Wasting Water Through Plumbing Leaks
Water conservation has become an international concern as the planet's natural resources are declining. On a smaller scale, water that is wasted through unnecessary plumbing leaks can have a negative effect on a home. Naturally, large water leaks are going to be easy to spot, and quickly fixed with the right professional.
It is the smaller plumbing leaks that are harder to spot that can actually become a bigger issue. Small leaks can have monumental effects by the time they are noticed. For example, a dripping faucet can waste up to 3,000 gallons of water per year. When homeowners think of how that will affect their wallet, small leaks suddenly become big problems.
The best way to combat these small, but still large, leaks is to have an idea of the warning signs. Identifying symptoms of a plumbing leak may be easier than you think. This guide will help walk you through what homeowners should be on the lookout for.
Be Aware Of High Water Bills
Generally speaking, water companies do not raise their rates drastically. They normally take a slower approach, and you will see rates spike over time.
When a homeowner notices an increase to their water bill, that could indicate there is a leak somewhere in the plumbing. As mentioned above, a simple dripping faucet can waste 3,000 gallons of water per year. This can certainly add up, but again, over time.
A more common culprit is a running toilet. When a toilet continues to run, it can drastically raise your water bill. If it is not the toilet, you may want to check appliances that are not in the forefront of the living space like the water heater.
Check for water accumulation around the bottom and top of the unit. Homeowners are also advised to seek out a professional as they will be able to determine where the leak is coming from in short order.
Look For Mold Spots
Some homeowners will notice a wet spot on their walls or ceiling. A lot of times these spots are dismissed as “just a little water,” but the truth is they are probably caused by a water leak in an internal pipe.
When an internal pipe leak occurs, a wet spot will appear on the walls or ceiling. These wet spots, if not handled immediately, will turn into mold and mildew spots. This can not only be costly to repair but can have detrimental health effects such as:
- Sinus Issues
- Nose Bleeds
- Increased Allergies
- Throat Irritation
- Eye Irritation
- Exacerbated Asthma
These conditions can be worse in individuals with pre-existing conditions, young children, and elderly adults. Mold and mildew exposure can also affect your pets.
Be Aware of a Musty Odor
When standing water is allowed to sit stagnantly, it can have an effect on more than your just your health, but on your senses as well. Typically, the most affected sense is the olfactory sense which is your sense of smell. Standing water, when in contact with any type of material, will create a musty odor that is unpleasant.
This is also a sign that mold and mildew growth is at hand. A musty odor is very difficult to get rid of, and usually, the affected item will need to be replaced.
When that item is a blanket, it is easily taken care of, when the item in question is an entire wall to a home, homeowners are looking at major repair costs.
Dutch Enterprises
Dutch Enterprises is committed to conserving water through the detection of plumbing leaks. As a 2017 BBB Torch award winner, they strive to complete every job to the customer's full satisfaction. Proudly serving the Cape Girardeau, MO area, Dutch Enterprises will quickly and accurately solve any plumbing problems.