Silent but costly water leaks can occur for homeowners and businesses. A small leak left unchecked can lead to significant damage and increased water bills. You will save time, money, and stress if you identify the signs early. At Pros Nearby, we're here to help you identify and address potential water leaks with ease. Here are some key signs to watch out for.
1. Unusually High Water Bills
A sudden surge in your water bill without significant changes in usage may indicate a hidden leak. Compare your current bill with previous months to identify any unexpected increases. If the numbers don't add up, it's worth investigating for a possible leak.
2. Low Water Pressure
Another sign of a water leak could be a drop in water pressure, especially in certain areas of your home. Leaks in pipes can reduce the amount of water flowing to your taps and fixtures, resulting in weaker pressure.
3. Damp or Discoloured Walls and Ceilings
Water seepage is a common cause of damp patches, peeling paint, or discoloured spots on walls and ceilings. They may be yellowish or brown and can grow over time. When you notice these marks, you must act quickly, as prolonged exposure to water will weaken your home's structure.
4. Mould or Mildew Growth
Leaks cause moisture, which is conducive to mould and mildew growth. When you find damp smells or see mould growing on walls, floors, or ceilings, there could be a leak that is hidden from your view.
5. Unusual Sounds of Running Water
If you hear water running or dripping when no taps or appliances are in use, you should look for potential leaks. Look under sinks behind appliances and around your property for any signs of water.
6. Wet or Soggy Patches Outdoors
If your garden or driveway has wet, soggy areas, even during dry weather, it may be the case that there is an underground pipe leak. Puddles or greener-than-usual grass patches can be signs of trouble with outdoor plumbing.
7. Cracks in Your Foundation
Serious leaks, especially from underground pipes, can cause cracks in your property's foundation. Water, over time, can erode the soil beneath your home, causing structural issues. If you see new cracks, investigate the cause right away.
8. Water Meter Test
A quick and easy way to confirm a leak is by checking your water meter. Remove all taps and appliances that use water, and then monitor the meter for any movement. That's if it continues changing; it means there's probably a leakage somewhere in your system.
9. Spiking of the Humidity Levels
If your home feels unusually humid or you’re dealing with condensation on windows and walls, it could be due to a water leak. Excess moisture in the air often points to hidden plumbing issues.
10. Rusty Pipes or Fixtures
Corrosion on pipes and fixtures is often a sign of long-term exposure to water leaks. Check under sinks, around water heaters, and other plumbing areas for rust or stains.
How to Respond to Water Leaks
In case you observe any of the following, act immediately. Here is what you should do:
Shut Off the Water Supply: Identify your main water valve and shut it off in case there will be no further damage.
Call a Professional: In case of a water leak, finding it is challenging, and repairing it on your own might not be that easy. Our experts at Pros Nearby will detect the root cause of the issue and work with efficient solutions.
Monitor for Future Issues: Keep an eye out for potential signs of leaks on your property to stay ahead of any problems.
Conclusion
Detecting water leaks early can save you from costly repairs and prevent unnecessary stress. If you suspect a leak in your home or business, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Contact Pros Nearby for reliable and professional plumbing services. We’re here to help keep your property safe and your water systems running smoothly.