Some plumbing leaks are obvious, while others are not, and those can be the most dangerous kind. An undiagnosed leak can cost you many gallons of water a day. There's also the risk of water damage, which can be difficult and expensive to remediate. It also increases the likelihood that you'll experience mildew, mold, and pest infestations within the home.
1. Higher Water Bill Than Expected
Even a small leak can cause you to lose 10 or more gallons a day, which can add up to a lot by the end of the month. Whenever you get your water bill, check it against past bills during the same month. If it's higher than expected, call your water company, and if you don't get answers from them, it's time to call a plumber. Many utilities will alert you to high water usage in advance of your bill, but you may have to opt in for those notifications.
2. Low Water Pressure
Sudden and temporary loss of water pressure may reflect an issue with your municipal water supply. If the problem is more persistent, it's important to find out what's causing it, as it's often a sign of a serious plumbing problem. It often means that water is escaping before the fixture where you're experiencing the issue. If the pressure issues are home-wide, it may indicate a leak in the main water line.
3. Foundation Problems and a Soggy Lawn
Many homes have slab plumbing. This is where a plumber installs the home's main plumbing before the builder lays the concrete slab the house sits on. Small slab leaks can go on for a long time before the homeowner notices them. The excess moisture can undermine the house's foundation, and foundation cracks are a common symptom. The water may also saturate the ground and lead to soggy patches in your lawn.
4. Musty Odors or Visible Mold Growth
Mold requires moisture, a food source, and suitable temperatures. A plumbing leak often ensures that mold has everything it needs to flourish. Be mindful that mold can be present in a home long before you see or even smell it. As it builds up, you'll eventually be able to detect it with your nose, so it's important not to ignore any unexplained mustiness. If you can see mold, you already have fairly serious growth on your hands.
5. The Sound of Running Water
Leaks often create sounds. That's why listening devices are among the ways that plumbers pinpoint leaks in a home. If you can hear the sound of running water as you're moving throughout your home, it's crucial to identify where it's coming from. Small leaks often aren't that loud. Still, you may be able to hear them by putting your ear up to the wall.
Be proactive if there's any concern; you may be experiencing a plumbing leak in your home. It's better to call a plumber and find out you don't have a leak than to wait and risk much bigger problems. By letting water leaks continue, the damage will worsen, which will make it more expensive and extensive to repair.