How Homeowners Can Identify Water Leaks in AK Homes
Tips to Help Catch Leaks Before More Water Damage and High Water Bills Occur
Water leaks are problems homeowners hope they never have to deal with. When these occur, they can quickly cause major water damage in homes – resulting in costly repairs and mitigation. It can also leave a mess, forcing property owners to potentially remove flooring and drywall and even replace furniture and other belongings.
Fortunately, Anchorage, AK plumbers have tips for how local homeowners can avoid these problems – including identifying the signs that indicate a leak, monitoring their water bills, and watching their water meter.
Signs of a Leak
If a homeowner walks into his or her house and is greeted by several inches of water, they immediately know they have a massive water leak. However, the leak might not be that obvious. Even if property owners don’t see standing water in their homes, there are other signs they can look for.
Some common symptoms of a leaking pipe include:
- An unexplained increase in water bills when their water usage hasn’t changed
- Sounds of running water when their plumbing fixtures or appliances are not being used
- Water stains on the walls, ceilings, or floors
- Evidence of mold or mildew
- Warped or damaged flooring
- Areas of the house that are constantly wet
- Decreased water pressure in plumbing fixtures throughout the house
- Leaking toilets
- Higher humidity levels in the house
- Warm or cold spots on the floor
High Water Bills
Another common symptom of a water leak is higher utility bills than normal. Homeowners might not notice this immediately, as they might just assume they used more water than usual in a given month. However, if the water bills keep increasing over time and households are not using more water than usual, it can indicate a leak.
If there is a leak in a home’s plumbing system, water can be wasted as it leaks out of the pipes. This causes wasted water and additional water usage. When homeowners notice their bills are increasing and suspect a water leak, they should have it inspected by a plumber quickly. The faster the leak is detected, the quicker it can be repaired, and further water damage can be avoided.
Water Meter
To determine if there is a water leak in their house, homeowners should also check their water meter. This might not be a unit households look at often, but it can be incredibly useful in determining leaks.
Before observing the water meter, homeowners should first turn off all plumbing appliances and fixtures. They should ensure their washing machine, dishwasher, and other systems are not running. They should look at the water meter once they confirm no plumbing fixtures are being used. If it’s running, then it can indicate there is a leak.
Homeowners should call a plumber as soon as they notice any of these signs of a leak. The faster the leak is detected, the better chance property owners have of preventing major damage to their homes.
About Discount Mechanical Heating & Plumbing
Since 2004, Discount Mechanical Heating & Plumbing has provided quality plumbing, heating, and cooling services to their neighbors in Anchorage. A family-owned and operated company, they offer 24-hour emergency services and flat-rate pricing. Call them today for water leak detection and repair services in Anchorage, AK.