How Homeowners Can Catch Leaks

Catching Leaks Early on Means Preventing High Water Bills

Leaks are never good. They don’t fix themselves, and the longer they go unaddressed, the more water gets wasted, the higher the water costs and the more water damage can occur. But aside from visually seeing a leak or a puddle of water, many homeowners don’t know the signs of a leak. That is until it’s too late, and they’ve spent way too much on water costs, and the home is damaged. Thankfully, in this guide, homeowners can learn the basics of leak detection, including how to catch one themselves so they can call a plumber to locate and repair leaks.

What Are the Signs of a Leak?

Some signs of a leak include: 

• Mold and mildew growth: Imagine a pipe drips on drywall. Over time, this will invite mold and mildew, which thrive in wet environments. People can suffer from respiratory problems with prolonged exposure.

• The sound of running water: If a homeowner hears the sound of running water but they don’t have anything that uses water turned on, this could mean there’s a leak. 

• Sagging ceilings or ceilings with water stains: If a homeowner has a ceiling that is sagging or notices that their ceiling is discolored or has water stains, this could mean there’s water on top of it, likely from a leak or burst pipe.

High Water Bills Could Point to a Hidden Leak

Homeowners should also keep track of any unexpected spikes in their water bill, as this likely points to a leak. Even small leaks like a dripping faucet can waste significant amounts of water and raise water bills. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, repairing easily fixed leaks can save homeowners around ten percent on water bills. 

So, if homeowners are spending more than usual on water costs without changing their water consumption habits, this could mean that water is escaping the plumbing system through a leak, and they’re paying for it. And when it comes to water bills in Virginia, every drop counts.

Readings on the Water Meter Could Also Indicate a Problem

A water meter measures the quantity of water that passes through the home. Depending on the water meter itself, it could measure water in gallons or cubic feet. If a homeowner notices their water meter’s leak indicator moving, it signals a leak. But even without a leak detector on the water meter, it can still be used to identify a leak. Here’s how:  

•  Turn off all fixtures and appliances using water: Ensure all water-using devices in the home are turned off.

•  Write down the number on the water meter: Never mind whether it’s reading per gallon or cubic foot, but jot down the number. 

•  Wait an hour or two: Go to the mall or watch a movie. Anything to waste time, but make sure no water is used during that time. 

• Check the reading on the water meter again: If the reading on the water meter has increased, this means there’s likely a leak. After all, no water was used, so the reading shouldn’t have changed.  

Once any signs or methods to find a leak have indicated the home has a leak, homeowners should contact a plumber for water leak detection and repair. 

About Plumb Perfect Plumbing

Plumb Perfect Plumbing was founded on more than two decades of experience serving Fredericksburg and the surrounding areas. They offer flat rate pricing, seven days a week service, and financing. Call them today for emergency plumbing services in Fredericksburg, VA. 

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