According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average household leak can account for close to 10,000 gallons of water wasted every year. Around 10 percent of homes have leaks that waste close to 90 gallons of water or more per day! Learning how to detect leaks inside your home can help prevent this from happening. Additionally, watching out for warning signs could mean avoiding potential water damage, saving you hundreds, maybe even thousands of dollars.
6 Signs There Is a Plumbing Leak in Your Home
Plumbing leaks are common, even if you live in a newer home. While not all leaks are obvious, understanding what to look out for can be extremely helpful. The quicker you are to detect this leak and call an experienced plumber, the better. Here are some signs you could have a plumbing leak in your home:
Your water bill is unusually high
It is common to see some fluctuation with your water bill, depending on the seasons; however, if your bill is really high, you could have a leak. According to the EPA, an average family of four will not use more than 12,000 gallons of water per month. (This might vary if you water a large lawn or garden, but this is the average overall).
Visible mold or mildew
You may have a little mold in your shower, which is normal for even the cleanest homes; however, if you see mold on the walls and ceilings of your home, you should be concerned. This is a sign you have a leaking pipe that needs to be fixed.
Your water meter runs even after you have turned off all water in your home
The best way to see if you have a leak is to monitor your home’s water meter. Turn off all water in your home, including all your water faucets, washing machine, and dishwasher.
Check the water meter and make a note of the numbers you see. Wait a little, maybe an hour, and then check again. If the numbers changed, you have a leak somewhere.
Wet patches
There might be wet patches on your walls, near your home in puddles, or even on your lawn. If there are certain areas of your lawn that are greener or wetter than others, it is possible that you have a leak.
Musty smell
Over time, a leak can contribute to a musty, stale smell in your home. You may also notice black splotches on walls. If you do not, this smell is also a sign that you have a leak that you cannot see.
Bubbling paint or bulging wallpaper
This is a sign that there is water behind your walls as your paint and wallpaper cannot stay put. A bulge in the wallpaper is a sign that the water damage is extensive, and the wallboard will need to be replaced.
Schedule a Call with an Experienced Plumber from Plumbing Solutions Today
Detecting a leak is just the first step towards making sure your home does not suffer from water damage. A leak should be addressed promptly to reduce this risk. If you find a leak and need to call a plumber to help repair it, get in touch with our office today.
Fill out a contact form online or call us at (949) 799-4544 to schedule an appointment with an experienced plumber.