Sometimes, a developing plumbing leak will be obvious. If there’s a puddle of water on the kitchen floor whenever you run the dishwasher or use the sink, or if you notice stains on the ceiling directly under your upstairs toilet, you’re probably going to need to deal with some leaky pipes. Occasionally, these are leaks that can be handled by individuals. However, it’s a better idea to hire a plumber. Plumbers are experts and know exactly how to fix your leak with a minimum of effort and cost.
Other times, you may not see any visible signs of a leak despite its presence. There is such a thing as hidden leaks, and they could cost you. According to the EPA, the average household can hide leaks amounting to 10,000 gallons per year, and 10% of houses have leaks that lose 90 gallons of water per day. Not only is this bad for your house, but it’s also bad for your wallet and the environment!
Before you can fix a leak, you first have to identify it. Below are some of the best tips and tricks for identifying hidden leaks in your home.
Watch your water bill
You water bill reflects the amount of water that goes into your home and out of a faucet – it doesn’t necessarily reflect the amount of water YOU use. Busted pipes or a leaky faucet can cause your house to consume more water, which in turn causes your water bill to shoot up. While your water bill will fluctuate from season to season, if you see a dramatic increase with no explanation, it’s time to call your plumber.
Check your water meter
This is one way to confirm a leak before you call the plumber. The water meter shows in real time how much water is entering the house. Shut off all the water in your home – if the meter is still moving, it means there’s a leak somewhere. Morrison Plumbing can help you locate, diagnose and fix hidden leaks.
Use your senses
Mold and mildew grow easily in bathrooms because of the warm, damp environment. But if you see mold or mildew collecting in corners or growing away from the shower, this might be a sign of a hidden leak. Check for a musty smell as well. If it persists after cleaning, this could be a sign of a plumbing leak.
When it comes to plumbing, don’t wait before calling in professionals. Leaky pipes can cost homeowners thousands in increased water costs and damage that can accrue over time. Morrison Plumbers services Cahokia, Illinois and the surrounding areas – if you are worried about a leak, visit MorrisonPlumbing.com to set up an appointment. If you’re seeing signs of a plumbing leak, the best thing you can do is to take care of it immediately.