At-home leaks come in all shapes and sizes and can be the result of many different sources. Despite these factors, any leak can end up causing serious damage. That’s why it is important to identify these leaks early on before they can get out of control.
Airco Service is here to give you a rundown on the tips to protect your home from various types of leaks. First, it’s important to understand the signs of these leaks in order to properly fix them. That way, leak detection can no longer be a foreign concept, even to the newest homeowners.
Signs of a Water Leak
These are the common signs that indicate you have a water leak on your hands:
Skyrocketing Bills
Have you noticed a sudden spike in your home’s water bill? Skyrocketing water bills are a common connective tissue to a water leak.
Mold & Mildew Growth
If you or members of your household have spotted discolored areas around your walls or baseboards, you might have a mold or mildew problem. Water leaks create an amount of excess moisture that wasn’t there before, creating an environment perfect for mold and mildew growth.
Peeling Paint
Another common sign is peeling paint or wallpaper. This sign is a telltale indication of a water leak nearby.
Wet Spots Around Property
Have you noticed or stepped in an unexpected wet spot in your home? Wet spots on the ceiling, floor, or walls are a sign of a hidden water leak.
7 Ways To Find Hidden Water Leaks In Your Home
Water leaks aren’t always able to be seen, making the potential for extensive damage much higher. Here are seven ways to help you find hidden water leaks in your home:
1. Water Meter Test
One way to find a leak is with a water meter test. Start by turning off all the faucets in your home and check the water meter. If the meter is still running, you have a water leak. A change in readings may not be sudden, check again after a couple of hours and compare readings. If there’s a change in the water meter, this could mean the presence of a slow-moving leak.
2. Water Pressure Test
Another helpful test is a water pressure test. Again, turn off all the faucets in your home and measure the water pressure. A water pressure reading that is lower than normal could indicate a water leak.
3. Listen for Running Water
One of the easiest ways to spot a hidden water leak is by listening to them. If you hear unusual running water noises in the walls of your home, there could be a water leak.
4. Check Your Appliances for Leaks
When you want to check your home’s appliances for leaks, start by disconnecting them from their outlet. You may notice water dripping somewhere from the appliance.
5. Check Your Toilet for Leaks
Checking your toilet for leaks is fairly simple. Put a couple of drops of food coloring into the tank of the toilet and wait to check it until the morning. If you find coloring in the toilet bowl, you have a leaky toilet.
6. Check Your Utility Bills
As stated earlier, if your utility bills all of a sudden are increasing, a water leak could be the cause.
7. Water Drips and Wet Walls
Visible dampness around your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry area are common signs of a water leak. Don’t run the risk of mold growing. If you notice these signs, take action.
Have you noticed any of these signs in your home? Schedule a water leak repair with Airco Service immediately to prevent any further water damage.
How Can I Fix the Most Common Water Leaks?
Good news! Most water leaks in your home can be fixed. Here is how to fix them:
Dripping Tap: How to Fix?
First, switch off the water supply. Then, open up the tap and inspect the washer. If you notice any debris, clean away any debris by using a piece of cloth. If the faucet has a decent amount of damage, replacement is the best option going forward.
Leaking Plastic Water Pipe: How to Fix?
The first thing you need to do here is check where the leak is coming from. Turn off the water source and replace the affected pipe. In terms of a quick fix, you can use tape or epoxy. If you need help from a plumber, use rubber and a hose clamp to hold it over until help arrives.
Leaking Plastic Water Pipe Joint: How to Fix?
Fixing a plastic water pipe joint is the same as fixing a water pipe. See the previous section to fix the issue.
Leaking Shower Head: How to Fix?
Start by turning off the water supply and removing various components such as the handle cap, handle, and faceplate. If you are fixing a leaky show that only has one handle, remove the locking clip and cartridge. Now, replace the cartridge and other necessary parts. Commence testing by turning on the water supply, opening the tap, and letting the water run.
Still leaking? It’s time to call the professionals.
Leaking Toilet Bottom: How to Fix?
If your toilet is leaking at the base or bottom after you flush it, this could mean that the rubber seal on the base or the tee bolts that keep the toilet in place have gone bad. Fixing a leaky toilet bottom entails the replacement of the wax ring and unscrewing and tightening bolts. It could also mean a crack has formed at the bottom of the toilet, which warrants a full toilet replacement.
What Are the Two Most Common Water Leak Detection Tests?
The two most common water leak detection tests are hydrostatic testing and isolation testing.
Hydrostatic Testing. This test involves pressurizing the tank or pipe while monitoring water levels in the system, giving them a better idea of the leak they are dealing with.
Isolation Testing. Isolation testing involves blocking and pressurizing a specific section of a plumbing system. This allows professionals to narrow down their search for the leak through decreased pressure.
4 Facts You NEED To Know About Household Water Leaks
Leaks Waste Tons of Water
A water leak (even a small one) will waste a ton of water. The more time goes on without a fix, the more water will be wasted. Thus, paying for water your household isn’t using.
There Are Leaks You DON’T Know About
Leaks can occur in areas we never see. Leaks can be above ceilings, under your home, or in the garage, and these are the leaks that have major potential to cause damage.
Water Leaks Can Destroy The Structure Of Your Home
Water leaks like slab leaks cause major damage to the structure of your home. Slab leaks can create cracks in the foundation or have your home shift or move. And they aren’t limited to structural damage. Other ensuing factors include costly and large repairs, higher water bills, health issues stemming from mold, and more.
Most Household Leaks Are Easy To Repair
Thankfully, if your home has a water leak, they are often easy to repair. Whether that means simple at-home fixes or the help of a plumber, your water leak won’t pose too much of a challenge.
Is a Leaking Pipe an Emergency?
Yes, any leak, no matter the size is a plumbing emergency. Water leaks are often a sign of a much larger issue.
Give Us a Call Today For Help With Water Leak Detection
Leak detection is an important asset for any member of the household to have. If you’ve spotted the common signs of a water leak or you know you have one, contact Airco Service before it’s too late. If you have a water leak but are struggling to find the source in your Oklahoma or Arkansas home, Airco has the water leak detection services you need. We offer an online contact form for convenience and accessibility.
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