Plumbing leaks are something most people will encounter at some point. Even if a small leak doesn’t seem like a huge problem, you should take steps to address it now rather than later. A small plumbing leak can quickly turn into a torrent of water that can cause extensive property damage. Our professionals can break down the details below.
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Why You Shouldn’t Neglect Small Leaks
Even if a leak seems small and not that important, you should not neglect it. Below are some of the major consequences of leaving it to fester.
Property Damage
The main danger is water damage to your property. Water is highly destructive and can damage important structural elements of your home. Water leaks in the walls or ceiling can cause drywall to bloat and sag, and leaks underneath your flooring and in your basement can infiltrate and cause extensive slab damage. Even small leaks can set you back a ton by hurting the value of your home.
Health Issues
Plumbing leaks can also be a health hazard for you and your family. They can introduce pathogens in your plumbing, and excess moisture from leaks can cause mold and algae to grow on your walls, in your ceiling, and underneath your floorboards. Pipe damage can also let wastewater into your home.
Water Waste
Even small plumbing leaks can waste a substantial amount of water. Something as small as a dripping faucet or a pinhole leak in your pipe can waste thousands of gallons of water per year. That means much higher water bills for your home.
Signs of a Leak in Your Home
Leaks are often not immediately visible. You can tell if you have a small plumbing leak by keeping an eye out for the following signs:
- Dark spots in your walls or ceilings
- High indoor humidity
- Mildew or mold growth
- Bad, musty smells near flooring and walls
- Peeling wallpaper or sagging drywall
- Low water pressure
- Spiking water bills
If you suspect you have a plumbing leak somewhere in your home you can test for one using your water meter. Go around your home and turn off all water-using appliances and shut off all faucets. Next, find your water meter, which is normally near the sidewalk curb in front of your home. If the meter is still running but all faucets are off, then you have a leak somewhere in your plumbing system. You can also estimate the size of the leak by taking note of how much the meter changes.
How To Avoid Plumbing Leaks
As is the case with most things in plumbing, the best solution to the issue is to prevent leaks in the first place. Below are some simple steps you can take to minimize the chances of developing small plumbing leaks:
- Consider installing a water softener. A water softener can lower the sediment content of your water, which can prevent corrosion and damage that causes leaks.
- Check your water pressure and reduce it if it’s too high. Most homes should have a plumbing pressure reading of 30 to 80 psi, depending on the specific system.
- Tighten the fastenings and joints on your piping. Spots to pay attention to include underneath sinks and near water-using appliances, such as your washing machine or dishwasher.
- Avoid putting inappropriate materials down your sink drains, such as food particles, hair, and other types of waste. Waste matter can build up on the interior of pipes, causing clogs that can create leaks.
- Insulate your pipes. Insulation will keep them warm during the winter and can stop pipes from freezing and bursting.
- If your home is still outfitted with old cast iron piping, consider replacing it with modern copper piping or heavy-duty PVC and PEX piping. These materials are less prone to corrosion.
- Consider calling for a professional plumbing inspection. A professional has the right tools and knows early detection methods to identify problem areas before they cause major leaks in your home.
Your Go-To Choice for Plumbing in Midlothian, TX
Whether you have a small plumbing leak or need extensive plumbing work, Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling & Heating is here to assist. Send a message online or call today to schedule an appointment in Midlothian, TX!
Want to learn more? Read our blog to learn more about the various causes of plumbing leaks and what to do about them.
