How to Spot a Leak
Water leaks are a huge nuisance that can cause expensive and irreparable damage to your home. At times, there are ways to stop a leak in its tracks before it spirals out of control. However, there are many times when homeowners experience leaks in their plumbing systems which aren’t as obvious as a dripping faucet.
These hidden leaks are the cause of hundreds of thousands of dollars of damage across the country each year, and it can be tough to find ways to stop them. That is why the experts at W.B. Arthur are here to help you spot a hidden leak before it’s too late.
Read on to learn the dangers of hidden leaks and to protect your home and family from them.
Dangers of Hidden Leaks
In addition to the high cost of certain repairs they can rack up, hidden leaks also pose these threats to your home:
- Health risks
- Water contamination
- Structural damage
- Fire hazards
- Attic damage
- Pest infestations
All of these reasons and more make it essential to contact a professional immediately when you believe you have a hidden leak.
Water Pressure Changes
One of the first signs of a hidden leak is a sudden change in your water pressure. If your faucets have a lower flow than usual, check with the rest of the family to make sure no one adjusted the pressure settings. If not, the lost water is likely trickling out somewhere along your pipes rather than down your drain.
Damaged Walls, Ceilings, & Floors
At times, hidden leaks will make themselves known by changing the look of your floors, ceilings, and walls. If your floors are sinking, sagging, or warped, they are likely reacting to a change in moisture. Your ceiling and walls can also warp as well as bubble and sag when faced with more water than usual. Another sign of excess water is staining.
Don’t risk structural damage and call a professional straight away.
Water Bill Increase
While your water pressure may have lowered, your water consumption is going up. All that lost water is wasted dollars and cents, and the longer a leak sits, the more expensive it will be for you. If you notice that your water bills are unusually high and you’re experiencing other signs of a leak, you should call in for a leak inspection.
Smells
If there is a musty, dusty odor lingering around your home, you could have a hidden leak. Mold and mildew growth come with a smell and the pooling of water will create a stale stench you’ll soon be able to identify.
Mold & Mildew
One of the most dangerous side effects of a hidden leak is mold and mildew growth. This growth comes from excess moisture, can happen anywhere, and can go undetected for long periods of time. If the musty smell we mentioned above is lingering,or you see the slightest hint of mold in your home, it’s best to have it checked out.
Prolonged exposure to mold can have a severe effect on your family’s health and cause respiratory issues, headaches, and itchy eyes, noses, and throats.
Water Leak Detection in Austin, TX
W.B. Arthur will be there for you when you suspect a leak. Give us a call at (512) 710-0559 to discuss your options and get your home feeling safe and protected against water damage.