Several Easy Ways to Find Leaks
If homeowners were to make a list of problems they want to avoid at their house, a water leak may be near the top. Not only can they cause water damage, but they can also be expensive due to water costs, leak repair costs, and water damage repair costs.
To help prevent these problems from worsening, homeowners can take steps to find a water leak as soon as possible. The faster homeowners call for water leak detection and repair, the better chance of limiting the water damage and costs.
Common Signs of Leaks
To prevent further water damage and even some structural damage to homes, homeowners should know how to identify the signs of a leak so they can call a plumber to fix it. These symptoms of a leak may include wet spots, discoloration, or water stains on walls, floors, or ceilings.
Signs like mold or mildew growth or smells, low water pressure from the plumbing fixtures, and the sound of running water when no fixtures or water-using appliances are on can all also signal to homeowners that they have a water leak. Of course, more obvious signs like damaged or warped flooring and sagging ceilings also indicate a leak.
Higher Water Bills
Another key sign of water leaks that homeowners must be aware of is increased water bills. When water costs get higher without a noticeable change in the household’s water usage, it can indicate that there is a water leak in the plumbing, and a plumber should be called.
As water leaks out of the pipe, water will be wasted, even when it’s not needed, resulting in higher water usage and bills. Property owners must identify these problems quickly and schedule prompt repairs to limit the water damage and costs. Once the leak is fixed, water bills will be reduced, and homeowners can save money.
Use the Water Meter
Homeowners can also use their water meters as a tool to detect leaks. Some water meters will have a leak indicator, which often looks like a triangle, wheel, or dial, that moves when water flows through the meter. When everything that uses water for the household is turned off, but homeowners notice the leak indicator is still moving, it suggests that water is still flowing somewhere, indicating a leak in the system.
But even without this feature, water meters can still be used to test for leaks. Property owners should verify that water is not being used inside or outside the house to ensure they get an accurate reading. Then, they should write down the number on the meter's display, also known as the current reading. After about an hour of not using water, check the meter's display again and compare it to the previous reading. If there has been an increase in the number, there’s likely a leak in the system, and a plumber should be called for water leak repair.
About Postma Heating & Cooling
Postma Heating & Cooling is a family-owned electric, heating, air conditioning, and plumbing company serving Chatham-Kent, ON, and the surrounding areas since 1989. They provide straightforward pricing, same-day service, and the latest technology. Call them today for water leak detection and repair in Chatham-Kent, ON.
