Finding a leak in your home can be a homeowner’s nightmare. They aren’t just difficult problems due to the amount of damage they can cause, but because they’re silent killers within your home’s walls, making them very difficult to locate. This is why knowing the signs of a leak early can save you money, time, and stress. In this article, we’ll explore the common warning signs of a leaking pipe and what you can do about it.
High Water Bill
One of the most telltale signs of a leak in your house is an unexpected spike in your water bill. If your water bill has suddenly gone up even though there hasn’t been a major change in your water usage, this could be a sign that something is amiss. A leaking pipe can waste thousands of litres of water if left unattended, so it’s vital to fix the issue as soon as possible.
The easiest way to get concrete proof on whether you have a leak in your home is with the help of your water meter. First, make sure all of your taps are firmly turned off and you don’t have any dishwashers or washing machines running. Then, note the meter reading connected to your property. Wait around one or two hours and check your meter again. If the reading has changed, then it’s very likely you have a leak somewhere in your home.
Damp or Discoloured Walls and Ceilings
Dark and damp patches on your walls are another major indicator of any home water leaks. These can occur when water from a leaking pipe seeps into the very structure of your home. Pooling water withinin your walls and structure can rapidly lead to mould growth and structural damage.
Take notice of where the damp patches and stains are located. They could give you a major hint as to where the leak is actually located. These are likely to lead to leaks in your bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. Your nose is also a great tool for finding leaks. If you catch a strange whiff of any particularly musty odours, it might be a sign of a leak in your home.
Mould and Mildew Growth
What is likely to follow from damp patches in your walls is mould growth. These fungi thrive in wet, dark environments. They’re not just a sign of a pipe leak, but also a major biological hazard, as prolonged mould inhalation can lead to many health problems down the line. If you find that mould is continuing to spread through your home no matter how many times you use mould killer, then it definitely means you have a leak you need to address. This needs to be acted on as soon as possible, as any delay can lead to permanent water damage to the structure of the house, which can lead to costly replacements and repairs.
Reduced Water Pressure
A sudden drop in water pressure isn’t just frustrating for showers or cleaning dishes, but is also a common sign of a home water leak. Because water is escaping from a pipe, it reduces the amount of water available for your other taps and showers. The best way to locate the source of the leak is by checking all of the taps in your household. The taps experiencing the most water pressure loss likely have a leaking pipe nearby. Meanwhile, if there’s weak water pressure throughout the whole house, there’s likely a problem with your main water supply.
Water Stains on Floors
If you’re having spontaneous water stains on your floors near your plumbing fixtures, especially when nobody has turned on the water, it’s a likely sign of that there’s a hidden leak seeping up through your floors. Common culprits for these kinds of leaks are due to leaking toilets, sinks, or other appliances.
Unexplained Sounds of Running Water
If you’re hearing a consistent sound of water running in your home when no one else is using the water, it could be a sign of a hidden leak in your home. If you live in an older unit, it could be a sign of other people in the building using the water. However, if it’s a consistent sound that won’t stop, especially throughout all hours of the night, then you very likely have a leak on your hands. This sound is usually the sound of water rushing down your walls or under your floors, so it’s important to keep an eye out.
Cracks in Your Foundation
If you’ve noticed any cracks in your foundation, this can also be a sign of water damage being caused to your home. These can take form as cracks in your walls or the concrete foundations of your home. This is because water can erode and weaken the concrete structures of your home over time.
We recommend getting a professional to assess the damage as soon as possible, as not only is a pipe link dangerous for your house, but can cost you thousands in repairs.
Evaluating the Damage
Have a professional assess the extent of the damage and determine if a water leak is the underlying cause. Repairing the leak and addressing any structural issues can help prevent further deterioration.
Get to the Bottom of Your Plumbing Issues with OA Plumbing
Being able to identify the signs of leaks in your home early is vital, as it prevents water-damaging havoc from rampaging across your home. By knowing these warning signs, you’ll be able to identify signs of a leak in your house before they causes massive damage. By staying vigilant against leaks, you can protect both your household and the property value of your home.That’s why if you fear you might be the victim of a pipe leak, you shouldn’t delay in calling a plumber. OA Plumbing are here to help. Our plumbers are specially trained in diagnosing all kinds of leaks or other problems across a variety of plumbing systems. Our top-of-the-line tools, such as our drain cameras and pipe locators, are fantastic at finding the sources of leaks that we can repair swiftly and efficiently. Call us today so we can give you a free quote and help you fix the source of your leaks.
