Call Now For 24/7 Emergency Services
The question in the title of this post is one of the great conundrums people face with their plumbing. It sounds like a catch-22: how can you know that you need professional plumbers to find hidden leaks in your home when you can’t see the leaks because they’re hidden?
This isn’t a conundrum for professional plumbers, however! We understand that hidden leaks aren’t fully “hidden”—they leave clues to their presence in a home, and if you know what to look for, you can figure out that it’s time to call us for leak detection in Tampa, FL. We’re ready with 24/7 emergency service!
Let’s take a look at the major clues that you’ve got hidden leaks in your home:
Strangely high water usage
One of the best ways to tell that water is escaping from your plumbing is to pay careful attention to your water bills each month. Keep track of gallons used and watch for sudden increases. Your water use should be steady for most of the year, with some slight seasonal increases. Since even small leaks can cause many gallons of wasted water, any sudden rise in usage on your bills is a warning of hidden leaks.
Spots of discoloration on the walls and ceiling
Water leaking from pipes will cause damage to drywall, even a tiny amount. Look out for brownish spots of discoloration on the walls and especially the ceiling to warn you of these leaks. Any water spots on the ceiling beneath a bathroom is a reason to call for a plumber right away.
Odd behavior from the water heater
When you have leaks in the hot water lines, the loss of hot water will cause the water heater to begin acting strangely, such as turning on at unusual times.
Mold and mildew
As long as you keep the humidity under control in your house, you shouldn’t see mold and mildew starting to grow in corners or on walls. However, hidden leaks create spikes in humidity that will give mold and mildew a foothold. Don’t just clean this away—you’ll want a plumber to investigate.
Musty odors
This is connected to the mold and mildew problem. Stagnant water collecting inside walls, floors, and the ceiling will create a distinct moldy odor that needs investigation.
Warped floorboards
Have you noticed lumps and warping in the floors of your home? Doors that don’t shut well because they’re scraping against the floor? This often means leaks in the pipes down in the floor. You might also notice that the floor is warmer than before.
Water pressure drops
If certain faucets have low water pressure, it may be due to leaks. Check the faucet aerators first to see if this is the problem, then consult with a plumber.
Sound of running water
Can you hear water running when there are no taps or water-using appliances running in the house? This might be because of a hidden leak.
Rely on The Clean Plumbers for all your plumbing needs in the Tampa area. The one with the bubbles on the trucks!