Hidden plumbing leaks can wreak havoc on your home, requiring emergency plumbing services. This leads to water damage, mould growth, and costly repairs.
Detecting these leaks as early as possible is crucial to prevent further damage and maintain the integrity of your plumbing system. This article will explore the signs indicating a hidden plumbing leak and provide practical methods to detect them.
By staying vigilant and taking prompt action, you can address hidden leaks before they escalate into significant issues.
Unexplained Increase in Water Bills
One of the first indicators of a hidden plumbing leak in your Wellington home is a sudden and unexplained increase in your water bills. If your water usage has stayed the same, but your bills are consistently higher, it’s likely that a leak is present.
By monitoring your water bills closely and investigating significant fluctuations, you can identify potential leaks early and save money on costly repairs. For further information on water bills and meters, talk to The Wellington City Council about any water usage issues.
Mould or Mildew Growth
Hidden leaks create a moist environment ideal for mould and mildew growth which can not only damage your property and increase water bills. It can be bad for you and your family’s health.
Check for the presence of mould or mildew in areas such as under sinks, behind appliances, or on walls and ceilings. Also, pay attention to musty odours as well, as they can indicate hidden water damage. If you notice any signs of mould or mildew, further investigation is required to look for underlying plumbing leaks.
Water Stains and Discoloration
Water stains or discolouration on walls, ceilings, or floors are another giveaway. These can suggest a hidden plumbing leak. Look for yellowish or brownish stains, especially near plumbing fixtures, pipes, or areas directly below bathrooms or kitchens.
These stains indicate there may be water seepage and should be addressed promptly to prevent any further damage.
Warped or Buckling Flooring
Check your flooring. If it appears warped, buckled, or feels soft underfoot, it may be due to a hidden plumbing leak. Water can seep into the subfloor, causing it to swell and distort the flooring materials. This can create hazards in that some flooring materials can weaken and create risks, with people potentially falling through when walking on the damaged area.
Ensure you check often and pay attention to changes in the floor’s texture, especially in areas near bathrooms, kitchens, or laundry rooms.
Reduced Water Pressure
A sudden decrease in water pressure can also indicate a hidden leak. If you notice weak water flow from faucets, showerheads, or other fixtures, it may indicate that there is a leak within the plumbing system.
While reduced water pressure can have other causes, it’s worth investigating further to rule out any hidden leaks are the cause.
Sound of Running Water
Another issue to look out for is hearing the sound of running water when no faucets or appliances are being used. It could indicate a hidden plumbing leak.
So always pay close attention to any unusual or persistent sounds of water movement, as it may indicate a leak within your walls, floors, or ceilings. And try and investigate the source of the sound so you can pinpoint the potential leak and report to us at Paramount Plumbing & Gas. We offer plumbing and gas services throughout Wellington, Porirua, and both Lower Hutt and Upper Hutt.
Damp or Wet Spots
Always keep an eye out for areas that are damp or have unusual wet spots. Discovering damp or wet spots on walls, floors, or carpets, especially in areas where water shouldn’t be present, is a clear sign of a hidden plumbing leak.
Ensure you investigate these areas further to identify the source of the moisture and take appropriate action.
Fluctuating Water Meter Reading
If you are on a metered system, monitoring your water meter can help detect hidden leaks early. Turn off all water sources in your home and check the meter reading. If the meter continues to run or shows fluctuations, it suggests a leak. Ensure no water is being used during this test, including appliances that may automatically cycle on, such as ice makers or irrigation systems.
Professional Leak Detection Services
Consider professional leak detection services in complex cases or when you suspect a hidden leak but can’t locate its source. Leak detection specialist services use advanced tools like thermal imaging cameras and acoustic devices. Which will help identify leaks within walls, underground pipes, or inaccessible areas.
This expertise can save you time, minimise unnecessary repairs, and ensure accurate leak detection.
In Conclusion
Detecting hidden plumbing leaks early on is crucial to prevent extensive damage to your home and prevent health issues for you and your family. By staying vigilant and being aware of the signs mentioned above, you can take prompt action and minimise the impact of these leaks.
Regularly inspect your plumbing system, monitor your water bills, and address any unusual signs promptly. And remember, if you’re unable to locate or fix a hidden leak yourself, it’s advisable to contact us sooner rather than later to ensure thorough detection and proper professional repairs.
If you have any concerns about hidden plumbing leaks, don’t hesitate to contact us at Paramount Plumbing & Gas for assistance.