That drippy faucet in the kitchen is more than just annoying; it can become costly. Faucets aren’t the only place leaks develop over time. They just happen to be the most noticeable. Leaks in underground plumbing or hidden in cabinets cause material damage in addition to wasting gallons of water each year. That’s why it’s important to fix plumbing leaks sooner rather than later.
Signs You Have a Leak
Here are some signs you have a leak.
- You can hear the drips.
- The joints of your pipes are damp or appear rusty.
- There is a large puddle of water in your yard on a day it has neither rained nor have the sprinklers been on.
- You begin to smell mildew, especially in your basement.
Another way to determine if you have a hidden leak is to turn off all the faucets in your home, check the water meter and write down the numbers. Don’t use any water for the next couple of hours and then check the numbers at the meter again. If the numbers have changed, you have a leak.
Long Term Effects of Leaks
In a time when much of the nation is experiencing drought conditions, wasting gallons of water is simply irresponsible. Additionally, the failure to fix plumbing leaks in a timely manner can become a costly venture for any homeowner. You can expect to pay more on your water bill, but perhaps an even bigger hit to your budget is the damage long term leaks can cause to your home. Water leaks can lead to:
- Ruptured pipes in the winter.
- Mold and mildew in the framework of your house.
- Erosion around the foundation, leading to cracks and structural damage.
For help locating a leak and repairing it, call the professionals at Roth Heating and Cooling. We’ve been serving the plumbing needs of the Portland area since 1976.
