Most people do not realize they have a leak in their house until they see their monthly water bill. This guide helps you find the most common places in your home where you may find leaks.
Your Toilet
The toilet is a common culprit for leaks because it contains so many parts that become worn out. The flapper, valves, and floats can break over time, and your water may continue to run long after you flush the toilet — and you may be able to hear it.
Your Kitchen and Bathroom Faucets
A faucet that drips is a common issue, but over the course of a year, it could lead to significant waste. Plus, some faucets leak behind the scenes, possibly into the cabinet. Gaskets and washers wear out over time, and these quick repairs can solve many of your problems.
Your Garbage Disposal
In the kitchen, you also have the added risk of a garbage disposal that leaks. Garbage disposals can leak into your cabinets, and they can cause mold to grow below your sink, which poses health concerns for your family.
Your Showers
Shower heads are prone to drips, even long after you last washed up. Some problems are easily treated with pipe tape, but sometimes you need to replace a washer. Poor sealing around your tub can also lead to bathroom flooding and floor damage.
Your Humidifier
Some people attach humidifiers to their HVAC systems. If the humidifier or another component has a failing valve, it will waste water. These leaks can last months before you realize you have a problem because the leak is typically not visible.
Your Water Heater
Water heaters can leak a lot of water, especially if your tank rusts and becomes corroded. The pressure release valve also causes intense pressure to cause a water eruption from your pipes. Many people do not realize they have a water heater leak until they realize it is time for regular maintenance.
Your Washing Machine
A washing machine will leak out of the water supply hose most often, especially because the material that comprises these hoses is typically easily ruptured. Rust can also damage seals, which ultimately allows water to leak out. Check behind your washing machine periodically to ensure water is not leaking behind it.
Your Refrigerator
Refrigerators are likely to leak when you have an ice maker or water dispenser. You may notice water pooling in front of your fridge if this is the cause.
Your Dishwasher
Dishwashers tend to leak in the back of the unit based on their shape and design, which means the water can cause a significant amount of damage before you even realize you have a problem. Periodically, have a professional inspect the dishwasher to check for leaks in the back.
Your Irrigation System
A leak to your irrigation system means your lawn faces more watering than you originally thought, and as a result you are spending more money on your sprinkler or irrigation system than you expect. These leaks are often the result of rodent bites and hard water deposits.
Your Next Options
If you really want to find out if you have a leak, you should turn off every form of water, including your washer, humidifer, or dishwasher. Look at your water meter. Wait a few minutes, and check again. If any water was used over the course of this time, you may have a leak. Of course, this test will not help you pinpoint leaks, and it may not help you identify very small leaks.
Are you looking for solutions to water leaks at your home? Cleary Plumbing & Air is passionate about building long-term relationships with every customer, and we are also passionate about offering high-quality service 24/7. Call us today to speak with a plumber.