Do you suspect a plumbing leak in your home? Here are some of the signs to look for.
Studies have shown that more than 1 trillion gallons of water are wasted each year because of plumbing leakages. Interestingly, more than 10% of the contributors to these numbers are homeowners. An average household wastes at least 90 gallons of water a day. Most of the water wastage happens due to leaky plumbing, and the homeowners aren’t even aware. Besides water wastage, another downside of leaky plumbing is water damage which further results in mold growth.
To help you save water, prevent water damage, and minimize water bills, we have put together a list of signs of plumbing leakage.
Let’s break it down.
Increase in Water Bills
Have you ever witnessed a sudden spike in your water bills? It could be due to the kids playing with the sprinkler. If the spike in water bills is unexplainable, a water leakage has taken place. If the water leakage is left to stay, the water bills will continue to increase each month. Therefore, make sure to keep a close eye on your monthly water bill.
Mold and Mildew
It is not unusual for mold and mildew to develop in the shower areas of the cleanest of homes. However, if you notice mold and mildew outside the bathtub area, there might be pipe leakage simmering somewhere right beneath the surface. A pipe leakage could also be the issue if you notice mold in your kitchen, ceilings, and baseboards.
Musty Odors
In some cases, a plumbing leakage isn’t seen but smelt through the nose. As discussed earlier, water damage gives birth to mold, the stench of which isn’t the most pleasant of things. Even if somebody takes a shower thrice a day, the bathroom won’t smell musty, unless there is a plumbing leakage. Even if it isn’t molded, stagnant water can produce an unbearable odor
Running Meter
In a hypothetical situation, the water meter is running extremely fast. You shut off all the water faucets, but it wouldn’t stop. If such is the case, then there is a leaky pipe, somewhere on your property. A water meter is much easier to read than an electricity meter, even if there is a power outage. If the meter doesn’t stop ticking, get your plumbing checked for leakage.
Water Marks
A common sign of plumbing leakage is the presence of watermarks in the walls. Besides being unsightly, these watermarks are bad for two reasons. First of all, they affect the structural integrity of your home, and secondly, they give birth to mold.
Cracks
It is not uncommon for homes to develop slight cracks in the drywall and ceilings. However, cracks in the foundation aren’t a pretty sign. They allude to a plumbing leakage, which if left to stay can compromise the foundation and the entire structure of your home.
These were the most common signs of plumbing leakage in your home. To avoid the issue altogether, make sure to have your plumbing checked, at least once a year.
