No one wants to discover they have a plumbing leak in their home, but it’s not something that can always be avoided. Leaks do happen over time. The best thing you can do, however, is to try to be prepared for it.
We think the best way to do that is by being armed with the right knowledge. In this post, we’ll go over three ways you can look out for leaks in your plumbing system.
1. Keep Track of Your Monthly Water Bill Costs
We don’t expect everyone to keep track of their monthly water expenses with line graphs and charts, but you might actually be compelled to after you realize just how good of an indicator it can be of plumbing problems.
Plumbing leaks and pipe bursts can be invisible at times. Sometimes, the only way you’ll ever notice them is by keeping an eye on your water bill. A sudden spike in costs will indicate that A) Someone has been taking two-hour long showers or B) there’s water running continuously in some part of the system.
The downside of this method is that it most likely means the leak has existed for some time without your knowledge. But in this case, late is better than never.
2. Learn How to Read Your Water Meter
So if you can only use the water bill method after you receive your water bill, how are you supposed to be able to tell if you’re experiencing a leak as early as possible? One way is through learning to read the water meter and then checking it!
The water meter gives off a reading to show how much water is being used in your plumbing system at the present moment. If you turn off all the water appliances in your home and find your meter is displaying a number, then you’ll know for sure there’s a leak or burst in the system somewhere.
Water meters are typically located outside near the home, but it depends on how the house was built. If you can’t find it, don’t be afraid to reach out to an expert in plumbing in Huntington Beach.
3. Learn to Recognize Leaks
Many leaks will happen under the ground or behind the walls, but sometimes they’ll occur in places that are visible. Now, “visible” doesn’t mean they’re always obvious though. Some leaks are visible (or audible), but only when you’re really looking for them. Keep an eye or ear out for:
- Noises: You might hear the sound of rushing water behind the wall or under the floor. Make sure no one is using any of the appliances in the home while listening for leaks.
- Puddling: A puddle of water on your kitchen floor is nothing you’ll have trouble spotting, but puddles can also form in less obvious areas, such as underneath the carpet or in your yard.
- Water Damage: Leaks will spill water out onto the walls and areas around them, leaving behind marks of discoloration or possibly mold and mildew growth.
NEED HELP SPOTTING PLUMBING PROBLEMS IN YOUR HOME? CONTACT TOTAL COMFORT, INC. TODAY TO REQUEST AN ESTIMATE.