8 Signs Your Home Has a Plumbing Leak

When plumbing leaks occur in your home, early detection is the key to saving your wallet and minimizing water damage. So how do you catch plumbing leaks early? Keep a lookout for these 8 signs of water leaks:

1) High Water Bills

Summer is notorious for high energy bills and high water bills alike. But what does it mean when your water bills are much higher than usual? This is a significant sign that you may have a water leak in your home. When water is leaking, it will drain water around the clock. This is not only wasteful, but it is also expensive. The more severe the plumbing leak is, the greater impact it will have on your water bill.

2) High Home Humidity

When water is leaking into your home, it will naturally raise your home’s humidity levels. Extra water evaporates into your air, leaving it feeling heavy and muggy. If you find that your home feels especially humid, it could be a sign of water leaking.

3) Mold and Mildew

Where there is water, there is the risk of mold and mildew. You might notice mold on your walls, under your cabinets, or anywhere in your home near a water leak. This often accompanies an unpleasant mildew smell, which can make water leaks easy to detect. Mold can pose health risks, especially for those with sensitivities, allergies, and respiratory concerns. As such, it is important to address mold growth and its source—in this case, your water leak.

4) Electrical Troubles

Naturally, water and wiring do not mix well together. If water begins leaking behind your walls, it could lead to some electrical troubles. In a worst-case scenario, this could cause an electrical fire. In more mild cases of water leaking behind the walls, you might find your smoke detectors or lights short-circuiting. Safety always comes first when it comes to any home concern. Contact emergency services if you are concerned about your safety and the safety of your home.

5) Water Damage

One of the most substantial risks that come with plumbing leaks is water damage. Water has the potential to damage your drywall, furniture, flooring, and so much more. Ideally, you will detect the leak before it begins damaging your home. However, if you happen upon water damage, this is the sign of a plumbing leak.

6) Overly Wet Lawn

When your slab, irrigation system, pool, or any pipes underground begin leaking, they could empty excess water into your lawn. If you notice that your lawn is especially wet on drier days, it could be the sign of a leak. You might also notice lawn discoloration from overwatering and runoff water leading into the street.

7) Standing Water

While it might seem obvious, standing water often signifies leaks in your home. You might find water puddles under your sink, near your water heater, or on the floor. If you notice standing water in your home, check to see if you can trace it back to a plumbing leak. If you are unsure where leaking water may be coming from, contact your local plumbing professionals for support.

8) Low Water Pressure

Everyone wants a comfortable shower with high water pressure. So what does it mean when your water pressure begins waning? It could be the sign of a water leak. You might notice that water pressure in your shower lessens when someone flushes a toilet somewhere in your home. Why? Because some of your home’s flowing water is temporarily redirected away from your shower stream. This same concept applies to plumbing leaks. These leaks are constantly diverting water away from your sinks, showers, and toilets—leaving you with low water pressure.

Water Leak Repair and Detection in Raleigh

What should you do when you find a water leak in your home? For major leaks, you should first ensure your safety and the safety of everyone in your home. Next, call a plumber, such as those at Newcomb and Company in Raleigh. We provide industry-leading service for major burst pipes, small leaks, and everything in between. Our plumbing professionals proudly serve the greater Raleigh area, including Cary, Knightdale, Clayton, Garner, and beyond. We also offer emergency 24-hour plumbing support for our customers. Give our local plumbing experts a call today to get started!