Your home’s plumbing system likely is a complicated network of pipes that run through the foundation of the home as well as in the attic, walls, and even the ground outside the home. Leaks can develop in areas that are easy to identify, such as underneath the kitchen sink where the pipes are exposed. They can also develop anywhere else in the home or yard, including areas that are inaccessible to you. These leaks can be difficult to identify, but you can more easily determine you have a potential leak when you know the signs to look for. These are some of the signs that may indicate that you have a slow leak in your pipes:
Your Water Bill is Higher Than Normal
Even a slow leak can result in a considerable amount of wasted water, and this can cause your water bill to skyrocket. If you have noticed that your water bill is higher than normal for no apparent reason, you should inspect your property more closely to determine if you notice any other signs of a potential leak. Even if you do not, you might consider contacting a plumber for a diagnostic inspection of your plumbing system.
You Notice a Wet Spot
In some cases, you may notice a wet spot in the home or the yard that could indicate a potential leak. This may be an area in the home where you continue to wipe the floor but water returns without explanation. It may be a section of the yard that is always wet even if it has not rained or you have not watered the lawn recently. Even if the area is not wet, it may be more lush and green than other parts for no explained reason.
You Hear a Dripping Sound
When your house is quiet, take a moment to listen for sounds of a leak. This may be when the neighbor’s dog is not barking or when your HVAC system and TV are turned off. Walk slowly throughout the house, listening in each room for the sound of dripping water. You may also benefit from walking around outside the home to listen for sounds of water in the exterior walls of the home.
Your Water Pressure is Lower Than Normal
Another sign that you may notice when water is leaking from your pipes is lower water pressure. Depending on the size of the leak, this may be highly or only moderately noticeable. It may also be in only one water feature or several, depending on where the leak is located in the plumbing system.
If you have noticed any of these signs of a potential leak on your property, consider the benefit of getting the leak diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible. This can reduce the water waste and expense, and minimize the likelihood of water damage and related mold growth.
