Signs You Have a Plumbing Leak

Water leaks are one of the most common problems handled by our plumbers. Leaks can happen at any time and in places where you least expect them. They may seem somewhat harmless, but leaving a leak un-repaired can result in skyrocketing water bills and costly water damage in the walls and foundation of your home. Here are a few things to look out for to identify leaks when they occur:

You Hear a Hissing Noise

Whether you live in a brand-new house or one that's a century old, your plumbing may make a multitude of noises, from clanking to gurgling and more. However, there's one sound you should listen for that could indicate a leak: hissing. A hissing sound typically means a valve isn't closing properly in some part of your plumbing - homeowners often notice the sound in their toilet tank or coming from their water heater. If the sound is coming from your toilet, put a couple of drops of food coloring in your tank, then watch the bowl to see if the color leaks into the water there. If it does, you have a leak.

You See Mildew, Mold or Other Signs of Water Damage

Mildew and mold grow from excessive dampness, humidity and standing water, so if you have a leak in your home that causes any of these, mold and mildew are a surefire sign of it. You should also look for dark spots on your ceiling (especially if they're growing larger), dimpling wall paper, peeling paint or warping floors - any of these could be caused by water damage from a leak.

Your Water Bill Goes Up

The plumbing that runs throughout a home is extensive, so sometimes the only way to identify a leak is when your water bill starts to increase. If you believe you may have one, here's a handy way to confirm it: Look at your main water meter, and write down the level you see. Then, turn off your main shut-off valve for several hours and don't use any water during this time. Check the meter again - if it's lower than it was before, you have a leak.

If you aren't sure whether you have a leak or not - or you know you have one but you aren't sure how to fix it - call or schedule service online  with the experts at Reliance Plumbing. We are available 24/7, 365 days a year for all your plumbing needs.