Water leaks are one of a homeowners biggest fears. They can lead to high water bills and could result in expensive repair costs if not fixed as soon as possible. It is important to look out for the warning signs of leaks so that you can be proactive in calling a plumber to repair the leak, saving yourself from expensive consequences.
Understanding the Basics
It is important to know the water leak warning signs in your home. These warning signs could include an abnormally high water bill, water stains, a rotting wood or mildew smell, or a dripping faucet.
Ideally, you will catch a water leak before it becomes something major, but just in case, you should have a plan in place if there were to be a plumbing emergency resulting from a leak. If you have a plumbing emergency or a major leak it is important to know how to turn off your main water shut-off valve. Do not depend entirely on the indoor shut off valves; you should know where the external shut off valve is to turn off the water to the entire house. Having a plan in place in the event that you do need to turn the water off could save your home from costly damages.
Think you may have a leak?
Leaks in your home may not always be obvious. If you suspect a leak, here is a DIY tip to confirm your suspicions.
One way to check if you have a leak is with your hot water meter. On your hot water meter gauge, there will be a blue or red triangle dial, this is your flow indicator. Make sure there is no water running inside or outside of your home. If all water sources in your home are not being used and the dial is still moving, then you most likely have a leak in your home and should get it looked at as soon as possible. If the dial is not moving, this does not mean that you do not have a leak. Mark down where the dial is pointing, then leave it for 15 to 20 minutes without using any water in your home. When you come back, if the dial has moved then you may have a leak and should call a plumber to come to take a look.
Dripping Faucets
Whether it is a sink, a shower, or a bathtub, they all contain faucets that have moving parts that get used daily. Having a dripping faucet could result in a significant hike in your water bill. Since these fixtures are used frequently, that means they are more prone to wear and tear over time. Changes in pressure could also cause a leaky faucet. Be sure to inspect under all sinks and look for discolouration around tiles and walls to see if there is further damage — these could be signs of a bigger problem. While you may be able to replace some of these parts on your own, without the proper tools or parts, you could cause more damage so don’t hesitate to all a trusted local plumber to come to look at your leak.
Call a Trusted Niagara Plumber
Let our team of plumbing contractors take care of your leak repairs so you can get your house in running order again. Knowing the warning signs for leaks could save you from significant damages. Think you may have a leak? Call Wellbrook Plumbing or click below to schedule your inspection.