The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that 11,000 gallons of water are wasted each year by running toilets, leaking faucets, and other plumbing leaks in the home. 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 repair any leaks in your home.
Water buildup is an obvious sign of a pipe leak. Leaks are often much less noticeable, but they 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. Poor workmanship and poor pipe and fitting construction can be a problem. More often than not, improper maintenance of drains, toilets, pipes, showers, and sinks is 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 that water is wasted in the home is through a running toilet. If your toilet makes a noise when it’s not in use, you’ll want to get it checked. This is an obvious sign that your toilet is not working properly and could cost you money on your utility bill. A good way to check the toilet for leaks 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 tubs not only waste water, they can cost homeowners large amounts of money each month. Even a slow drip will make a difference to your water bill. Inspect your faucets and have a plumber repair any that are leaking or building up. A qualified plumber will check the faucet washers and gaskets for wear and replace them if necessary.
You can use your home water meter 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, recheck the meter. If it doesn’t read exactly the same, you know you have a leak. Pay attention to your water bill. An unexplained increase or sudden spike in your water bill is another indication that there is a plumbing problem in your home.
If you notice unexplained or boggy 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 to assess the situation and make the 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 having to excavate large areas of your yard.
While some leaks can be easy to spot, others require the expertise of a certified plumber. It is a good idea to have a plumber perform routine checks on your plumbing system. Annual maintenance will ensure that any problems are caught quickly before they get worse.
