The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that 11,000 gallons of water are wasted each year from running toilets, dripping faucets, and other household plumbing leaks. Most of these leaks are easily fixed and could save you hundreds of dollars on your water bill. A certified plumber has the knowledge and skills to troubleshoot and fix any leaks in your home.
Pooled water is an obvious sign of a pipe leak. Leaks are often much less noticeable, but can end up costing you hundreds of dollars in wasted water each year. Water damage can destroy your floors, ceilings, walls, and property. Finding and repairing leaks requires the skill of a professional plumber.
There are many reasons why leaks occur. Inferior workmanship and poor construction of pipes and fittings can be a problem. More often than not, improper maintenance of drains, toilets, pipes, showers, and sinks are to blame for the problems. Corrosion, old or weak parts, and loose fixtures also play a role in home plumbing problems.
One of the most common ways water is wasted in the home is through an open toilet. If your toilet is noisy when not in use, you’ll want to get it checked out. This is an obvious sign that your toilet is malfunctioning and could be costing you money on your utility bill. A good way to test for a toilet leak is to put a drop of food coloring in the toilet tank. If color appears in the tank after 15 minutes without rinsing, you have a leak.
Leaky faucets in sinks, showers, or bathtubs not only waste water, but can also cost homeowners large amounts of money each month. Even a slow drip will make a difference to your water bill. Inspect your faucets and ask a plumber to fix any that drip or pool. A qualified plumber will check the faucet washers and gaskets for wear and replace them if necessary.
Your home’s water meter can be used to determine if there is a leak in your home. Check your meter, then don’t flush the toilet, turn on the faucet, or use water for two hours. After this time, check the counter again. If it doesn’t read exactly the same, you know you have a leak. Pay attention to your water bill. An unexplained spike or spike in your water bill is another indication that there is a plumbing problem in your home.
If you notice boggy or unexplained wet areas on your lawn, especially near the main water line, you could have an underground leak. A plumber has specialized equipment that will allow him or her to assess the situation and make any necessary repairs. Video cameras can be sent down the pipes to determine where the leak is. This technology allows the plumber to locate the problem without digging up large areas of your yard.
While some leaks can be easy to spot, others require the expertise of a certified plumber. It’s a good idea to have a plumber perform routine checks on your plumbing system. Annual maintenance will ensure that any problems are found quickly before they become worse.