Household water leaks are a homeowner’s worst nightmare. Water leaks can be devastating. Even a small leak can waste up to 10,000 gallons of water every year.
Unattended water leaks can lead to mold and fungi growth. Some other dangers of a water leak include structural and cosmetic damage, damaged wiring, gas line and appliances, and water contamination (blackwater- water loaded with contaminants).
Some water leaks can be difficult to detect. They hide in plain sight for a very long time. By the time the homeowner realizes they have a problem on their hands, it’s too late. If you suspect a water leak in your home but do not know for sure, you have come to the right place.
Here are some telltale signs of hidden water leaks.
Are you noticing a sudden and inexplicable increase in your water bill? You might have a water leak. The EPA suggests that a family of four will usually use no more than 12,000 gallons of water in a month. If your actual water usage substantially exceeds estimated water usage, have aleak detection company near you perform a whole-house plumbing inspection.
Periodically monitor your water meter. To read your water meter, first, turn off all the water faucets in your home. Check the washing machine and dishwasher and make sure they are not running. Note down the numbers you see.
Check the meter after an hour. If the numbers have changed, you have a water leak. To determine if the leak is inside or outside your home, turn off the shut valve on your home’s main water supply line and note down the numbers. Check the meter after an hour. If the reading has changed, the leak is in your water line.
A properly functioning and efficient plumbing system is relatively quiet. Vibrations and rattling or hissing noises coming from your piping could indicate a leak. If you hear water running even when all your water fixtures are turned off, schedule a plumbing inspection.
You know you are dealing with a water leak if the walls and floor of your home are constantly wet and damp. If you fail to tackle the problem in a timely manner, the leak can cause lasting damage. Moisture is likely to build up. This is a recipe for disaster as molds, bacteria, and viruses thrive in damp environments.
Are plumbing leaks giving you sleepless nights? Let John Owens Services Inc. help. We use time-tested methods and specialized equipment designed to detect leaks in hard-to-reach areas. To schedule a plumbing inspection with a leak detection company in San Rafael, call 415-449-7468.
Our philosophy is simple, we always want to maintain equipment to give it the longest life possible. Next, we want to focus on repairing when something goes wrong. Then only as the last choice, we replace equipment when needed. That’s the John Owens Way.