For the average homeowner, and even for an inexperienced plumber, plumbing problems can be hard to detect without the right equipment. Most of your plumbing system is hidden from view, after all, and the problems that usually affect plumbing are subtle in the beginning. For this reason, we recommend scheduling preventive maintenance for your plumbing at least once a year.
But it’s equally important to familiarize yourself with any warning signs that your plumbing system is experiencing some sort of problem. On the rare chance that a problem does occur between maintenance appointments, you can detect it quickly it and schedule repairs with a professional plumber in Waterloo, IA. Keep reading to learn more about these signs.
A Decline in Water Pressure
A drop in water pressure is never a good thing. It could be caused by a variety of potential issues, depending on how severe the drop is and how quickly it happened. Usually, a loss of water pressure means you have a leak or blockage somewhere in the system.
Slow loss of pressure over time means a growing leak or blockage, such as with limescale. However, a sudden loss of water pressure could mean that you have a pipe rupture, which would qualify as an emergency. Regardless of how quickly it happened though, it’s never a bad idea to call in a pro.
Unusually High Water Bills
Be sure to keep a pretty close eye on your water bills from month to month, just in case they start rising unexpectedly. Water bills that seem to be rising beyond what is normal for the amount of water you’re using could mean you have a leak somewhere.
If your monthly bills indicate that you’re using substantially more water than you actually are, it’s wise to have your plumbing system checked out.
Running Water Meter
One easy way to see if your plumbing system has a leak is to turn off all the plumbing appliances in your home, and then check your water meter. If the meter is still running, it means that water is probably still leaving the system somewhere, which means you have a leak.
Visible Signs of Water Damage
You may be very aware when something is amiss in your home, but the fact of the matter is that many plumbing issues only become noticeable once they’ve gotten far enough along to start inflicting damage. Pinhole leaks and similar problems are often found only after they’ve rotted out the surrounding area with water damage.
If you notice any signs of water damage on your walls or ceiling, it’s a good idea to call in a pro to check on it ASAP. After all, the longer you wait, the worse a problem can grow.
The Sound of Running Water
Of course, you should check to be sure nobody left a faucet on or that your dishwasher or washing machine is running. In the absence of this, if you hear the sound of running water with no apparent cause, it can certainly be due to a leak.
At Dalton Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Electric and Fireplaces, Inc., your comfort is our promise! To set up an appointment, give us a call at the number above, email customerservice@daltonphc.com or schedule an appointment online.