Plumbing pipes, connections, and fixtures are susceptible to aging. And that means your plumbing lines become more prone to developing a leak as years go by. Leak detection isn’t always easy, though.
Some leaks, like a dripping faucet, will be easily noticed. But others can carry on for months before you realize you need a leak repair.
No matter how big or small a leak is, you’ll eventually notice an increase in your water bill. If the leak is outside of a sink or tub, you could end up with costly home repairs caused by water damage.
In this article, we’ll discuss the different types of leaks potentially found around your Indianapolis, IN, home, so you can learn to identify the signs.
Common Leak Sites
There are as many potential types of leaks found in your home as there are pipes. But the following are the problems our team at Indiana Leak Detection gets called for the most.
1. Faucets
You’ve likely heard the incessant drip-drip-drip sound coming from a leaky faucet or showerhead before. Many things can cause a leaky plumbing fixture.
For example, as you shut off the water, you tighten the handles too much to prevent dripping. This action wears out the washer inside and leads to the constant dripping.
A faucet or showerhead can also leak because there is an issue with the O-ring holding the fixture in place or a corroded valve seat. Call a professional plumber near Indianapolis, IN, for the most successful, long-term leak repair.
2. Inside the Toilet
You read that right; the inside of your toilet can leak. Typically, these leaks are the result of a worn flapper. This little rubber component is pretty important. If it’s working correctly, it stops the water in the tank from entering the toilet bowl.
If it is broken or worn out, water will slowly leak out of the tank and into the bowl. For this leak repair, a licensed plumber can replace the rubber flapper.
3. Under the Sink
Worn-out plumbing connections or corroded pipes often cause a leak under the sink. Leak detection in this area is sometimes an accident! For instance, you might bump an unsecured piece of pipe while searching for something under the sink.
Clogs are a reasonably common cause of a leak in the kitchen sink. The clog blocks water from easily flowing through, creating pressure within the pipes and connections. A gap may start to develop and eventually lead to a leak.
4. Water Heater Tank
Your water heater continually expands and contracts throughout the day due to the changes in its internal temperature. If the tank is outdated and corroded, it can be a problem. Rusty interior walls become brittle and weak.
Cracks can develop because of the continual expansion and contraction, leading to water leaking from the tank.
If you notice water pooling around the bottom of your water heater, call Indiana Leak Detection right away.
5. Sewer Lines
Waste exits your home through drains that merge into one central pipe. This pipe is your sewer line that connects to a septic tank or an Indianapolis, IN, sewer system. Many factors contribute to a splinter in these lines, including the natural movement of the earth, clogs, age, and even interfering tree roots.
The sewer lines connected to your home can be repaired or replaced with a trenchless method or traditional methods. Traditional methods require excavation. Either way, this is a job that requires the expertise of a trained plumber.
6. Slab Leaks
Below your home’s foundation is a concrete slab with copper water lines running underneath it. With time, the copper pipes can deteriorate and begin leaking water under the foundation.
This type of leak is known as a slab leak. A slab leak causes your water bill to skyrocket, a decrease in water pressure, and wet or warm spots on your floors.
Common Signs of a Leak
To pinpoint the exact location of the leak, you’ll need to hire someone for professional leak detection services that can perform a leak test. But there are a few key signs to watch and listen for, so you know it’s time to call a professional in Indianapolis, IN.
If you notice any of these things, don’t hesitate to call a professional.
- Continual running or dripping water
- Soft spots on drywall or ceilings
- Loss of water pressure
If the water pressure is low throughout your entire home, you may have a problem with your main water line.
Meter Leak Test
If you suspect a leak, you can do a simple test on your own to confirm your suspicion. Begin by reading your water meter to see how much you’ve currently used. Then, wait 30 minutes but don’t use any water during this time.
After 30 minutes, return to the meter for a second reading. If the numbers haven’t changed, there is no leak. If the numbers change, your suspicion is right: you have a water leak.
It’s time to call in the professionals at Indiana Leak Detection to identify the leak and begin to make repairs.
Call Your Local Leak Detection Specialists!
Whether you’re positive your home has a leak or you’re just suspicious, give us a call. Our team of experts at Indiana Leak Detection has extensive training to handle the common types of leaks discussed in this article and so many more.
We will quickly determine whether you have a plumbing leak, find the cause of the leak, and recommend a solution. Call us today and feel confident that we will resolve your leak in no time.