While some plumbing leaks are obvious, like a running toilet or dripping faucet, others are often silent. They develop out of sight – in your walls, ceilings, and floors – persisting over time and causing damage and health concerns before they’re even noticed. Here are a few tell-tale signs of when you need professional plumbing leak detection and repair.

Warning Signs You Need Plumbing Leak Detection and Repair

1. Increase In Water Bill

If nothing has been done to justify a sudden spike in your water bill, something has changed in your plumbing system. Begin troubleshooting with the most common locations for a leak within the home:
 

• The toilet
   
• Under sinks
   
• The base of your water heater
   
• Around exterior spigots

 
The most common source for a water bill jump is a leaking toilet. Many homeowners don’t realize how much water a toilet actually uses – it’s essentially a garden hose on full blast, and it’s not unusual for a running toilet to be responsible for hundreds of dollars of wasted water!

If you’re unsure about an increase in your water bill, compare your current water bills to those from the same month last year.
 

3. Bubbling Paint or Water Spots

Inspect the areas around your toilets, sinks, and tubs for standing water or discolored features. Look for signs of bubbling or peeling on your ceiling or walls as this is a common sign of moisture.

Leaks will often leave damp spots that can give rise to mold and the dangerous, musty odors that come with it. If you are noticing musty odors inside your home regardless of how well or often you clean your home, you may have a leaking pipe and require professional plumbing leak detection and repair.
 

3. Discolored Pipes

The next time you’re poking around your kitchen, take a close look at your pipes. Notice any signs of discoloration, especially around a union. If there is, there’s a strong sign there’s moisture present. This can be caused by dripping from a sink or drain line, or something more serious such as a slow leak in the supply line. Either way, to be safe, place this issue at the top of your priorities list and call a professional.

Plumbing supply lines are pressurized, which means that a slow leak can potentially turn into a huge mess.
 

4. Weak Water Flow in Multiple Locations

Weak water flow in different locations around your home indicates a problem with water distribution. If you have weak water flow in one location, it’s usually an issue with the faucet aerator – which is an easy fix. However, if you are experiencing it with various locations, this could mean you have a leak at the water main, the water heater, or an active home leaks somewhere in the supply line.

If you’re experiencing this in conjunction with other signs such as bubbling paint, it’s imperative you call us so we can take action right away.
 

5. Slow Drain

While this is one of the most obvious, it could be as simple as a clogged drain or as complicated an issue further down the line. Fortunately, some detective work will zero in on the problem. Cleaning out a clog is a simple DIY fix. However, slow drains throughout the home are a sign there may be a major issue, like tree roots invading your sewer line.
 

Professional Leak Detection and Repair

Your home has a complex network of pipes that bring water to your kitchen, every bathroom, and to every floor of your house. Most often, these pipes are hidden behind walls and underground. When one of these starts to leak, however, locating the leak can become very complicated. Professional leak detection and repair are highly recommended for these hidden issues as they pose a risk to your home and loved ones.

Leak Science is proud to employ some of the most experienced and talented leak detection and repair experts in the area. To connect with us, contact us here, or call us immediately!