What Could Be Leaking in Your House?
Hidden leaks are a huge problem because they wastewater and can damage your house. They may also lead to mold that is harmful for your health.
One way to check for a leak is to read your water meter. Write down the numbers and wait an hour without using any water. If the numbers have changed, you have a leak somewhere.
Pooled Water
Water leaks waste gallons of water and can cause serious damage if not fixed promptly. Fortunately, there are some warning signs you can look out for that will help you catch the problem early.
Pooled water around drains and on ceilings is one of the most obvious signs that there is a leak in your home. This could also mean that your foundation is leaking water or that there is an issue with the plumbing in your home.
Another sign that there is a leak somewhere in your home is when you see your water bill increase without any explanation. Leaks can be responsible for this, and it is estimated that hidden leaks are the cause of a trillion gallons of water loss every year across the country.
To check for a water leak, start by shutting off all the faucets in your home, including those of your dishwasher and washing machine. Then, read your water meter and make note of the numbers that are displayed. If the meter reading changes after an hour has passed, this is a sure sign of a leak.
Dark Stains
A common complaint from homeowners is unsightly dark stains that form on the walls or ceiling. These are often a sign of a leak and should never be ignored. This type of leak wastes water and encourages unwanted organic growth. It can also lead to structural damage, particularly if the home is not insulated correctly.
These stains are typically brownish or yellowish in color and can indicate that there is a significant leak behind the wall. Another clue is if the wallpaper or paint appears to be bubbling or flaking, as this may be a sign that the surface is being damaged by water. If there is a leak, it’s important to act quickly to avoid extensive damage. You can check for leaks by shining a flashlight at night over all potential gaps in the wall. You should also listen for any dripping sounds that may help to locate the source of the leak. If you can’t locate the source, it is worth calling in a professional plumber.
Water Down the Walls
Water that leaks down walls can cause drywall damage, mold and mildew. If a leak is causing this, it’s best to call a plumber immediately since they can deal with the problem much more quickly than you can. Look for damp spots or a musty smell in
any room, especially the bathroom where there are many pipes and appliances that could be leaking water.
Another sign that there’s a leak is the sound of running or dripping water in walls or ceilings. Older houses may have iron pipes that make the dripping sound more noticeable, but newer homes often have drywall that can absorb the noise. If you hear a sound, shut off your water so that no more can flow through the pipes and listen for sounds in the wall to determine where the leak is located. This is also a good time to check the water meter, and make sure no one has used any water in your house.
Water on the Floor
If water appears on your floorboards, carpet or tiles it could indicate a leak in your pipes. The drain lines that lead from your home to the city waste system, septic tank or other appliances can get damaged, clogged or broken. This can seep through the floorboards and into the room below. Sites like https://www.fixitrightplumbing.com.au/blocked-drains-melbourne/ are great places to find reputable plumbers to help with a plumbing issue.
If you walk on the floorboards and feel dampness beneath your feet, it could be caused by a faulty toilet wax ring that allows water to escape through the base of the toilet when you flush it. Water leaking through the floor can also occur from cracked or damaged footings supporting your home’s foundation.
If you find puddles of water on your floors, it is important to turn off your water meter and call in a plumber straight away. This will prevent more damage from occurring. You should also clean up any affected items like furniture or paper products and use a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air.
