No homeowner wants to face a plumbing problem. If your plumbing pipes are over 20 years old, you have an increased risk of hidden leaks causing water damage and increasing your water bills. Here are a few signs that you have a plumbing problem in your home.
1. Low Water Pressure Can Indicate a Plumbing Problem
Low water pressure from faucets and showerheads means that you may have a plumbing problem. It could be caused by a leaking pipe in your home that is compromising the water pressure. Check your water pressure gauge. Normal water pressure for a house is 40-45 psi. Call a plumber if you have unexplained low water pressure.
2. Your Water Bills Have Increased
An increase in your water bills without an increase in usage could be due to water leaks around the house. Leaks can begin anywhere. It could be a running toilet, a busted pipe, a dripping faucet, or an exterior spigot. If you can’t find an obvious source for your increased usage, you may have a hidden leak in one of the walls. Call in a professional who uses special tools to locate a hidden leak.
3. The Sound of Running Water
If you hear running water and no one is taking a shower, flushing the toilet, washing dishes, or doing laundry, you may have a leak. Your plumbing system should be silent when it isn’t being used.
4. Your Water Meter is Increasing When No Appliances Are Being Used
One way to test for a water leak is to turn off all faucets, showers, and water-using appliances. Plan to not use any water for 30 to 60 minutes. Check your water meter and write down the number displaying. If that number moves after 30 to 60 minutes of no water usage, water is leaking somewhere.
5. Discolored Water is a Sign of Plumbing Problem
Red, brown, or cloudy water doesn’t necessarily mean you have an immediate plumbing leak, but it can indicate that your plumbing pipes are beginning to corrode. Pipe corrosion leads to pinhole leaks in the plumbing pipes. If left unaddressed, you may start to notice mold growing on the wall near the pipe and detect a musty smell.
Cabal Inspection Service offers home inspection services, including 4-point inspections, in southeastern Florida. Contact us to request an appointment.