Telltale Signs of a Water Leak

Has your water bill risen lately, and by more than a little? Leaky pipes may be to blame, some of which are easy to spot while others may be hidden. It’s the latter group that can cause you the most problems, which make early detection a key to preventing lots of wasted water and home structural damage.

Here’s how to tell if you’re facing a hidden water leak:

Appliances. Check your toilets, refrigerator, dishwasher, water heater, and other appliances for running water when they’re not in use. Also, pull your refrigerator away from the wall periodically to see if there’s any pooled water or water stains behind it. That could indicate a loose connection between your kitchen faucet and the fridge.

Inside your cabinets. If you have water pipes inside your cabinets – and not just those under your sink – you need to open those cabinets from time to time to look for evidence of leaking water.

Walls. Soft, spongy, or discolored spots on the walls can be indicators of a leaking pipe. Be sure to look for problems in rooms located beneath bathrooms or the kitchen as well.

Floors. Especially moist carpet, buckling or warped floor boards, and warm or stained concrete floors are all signs of leaky pipes beneath the floor. If you have a concrete slab foundation, examine it for cracks or places that are unusually damp.

Yard. Signs of leaking pipes outside may show up in your yard. Look for uneven grass growth, soft patches, or puddles that form when it hasn’t been raining.

Water meter. Check your water meter reading and then shut off your water main for an hour. If the reading on the meter changes, you have a leak on your hands.

Sewer. If your sewer backs up on a regular basis, it may be the result of leaking pipes. A musty smell around your sewer or drains also indicates a problem.

At Your 1 Plumber, we’re skilled in the art and science of water leak detection and pipe repair. If you know you have a leak but can’t find the source, trust us to locate it for you and recommend one or more optional repair solutions. Contact us today for any home plumbing need you might have.