Certain kinds of plumbing leaks in your home can be especially problematic because of the risks they create for flooding, and leaks in various supply pipes are a common example. Luckily, these kinds of leaks often begin small and give off some common signs that they’re taking place, which you can identify before they turn into more serious flooding issues.
At City Creek Plumbing, we’re here to help. We offer a huge range of plumbing repair services to clients around Layton, Kaysville, and nearby areas of northern Utah, including help with leaking supply pipes and other pipe leak issues. Here are some of the key risks of these kinds of leaks, some subtle signs of leaking water pipes, and some of the detection and prevention methods that may be used to deal with these issues.
Risks From Supply Pipe Leaks
There are several risks that leaking supply pipes or other water pipes in your home can create:
- Flooding: As we noted above, one of the most significant risks of leaking supply pipes is that they may eventually burst, releasing large amounts of water into your home. Depending on where the leak occurs and how severe it is, this could lead to significant flooding that could cause extensive damage to your property and belongings.
- Foundation issues: As a result of water damage caused by leaking supply pipes, your home’s foundation may also be at risk. As the water seeps into the ground around your home, it can weaken the soil and shift the foundation, potentially causing cracks or other structural problems.
- Mold growth: Standing water from a leaky pipe can create an ideal environment for mold to grow, which can lead to potential health hazards for you and your family. If left untreated, mold can spread quickly and be challenging to remove.
- Wall stains: You might also deal with unsightly stains on your walls or ceilings as a result of water damage. These discolorations can be difficult to remove and may require repainting or other repairs.
Subtle Signs of Leaking Water Pipes
Luckily, leaking supply pipes often give off some subtle signs that indicate these leaks before they become full-on problems. These signs include:
- Damp spots: If you notice damp spots on your walls or ceilings, it could be a sign of a leaking pipe behind the surface. These spots may appear discolored, bubbly, or even have mold growing on them.
- Reduced pressure: Have your faucets and showerheads suddenly started producing less water? This could be a sign of a leak in your supply pipes, as the pressure may be escaping through a small hole or crack.
- Unusual sounds: If you hear dripping, gurgling, or whistling sounds when using your plumbing fixtures, it could be due to air escaping from a leaking pipe. These sounds may become more noticeable at night when the house is quieter.
- Musty odors: A musty smell in certain areas of your home can also indicate a hidden leak. This odor may be caused by mold growth resulting from excess moisture from a leaking pipe.
- Unexpected water bill spikes: While there can be a few reasons for a sudden increase in your water bill, one of the most common causes is a hidden leak. If you notice a significant rise in your water bill without any changes in your household’s water usage, it’s worth investigating for leaks.
How Professionals Will Help You Confirm a Leak
In many cases, unless the leak comes from a visible area in your pipe system, you will need a professional to confirm its location. Professional leak detection services use specialized equipment to detect leaks in your plumbing system, such as:
- Infrared cameras: These cameras can detect temperature differences in your walls and floors, which can indicate the location of a hidden leak.
- Acoustic listening devices: These devices amplify the sound of water moving through your pipes, allowing professionals to pinpoint the source of a leak.
- Moisture meters: These tools can measure the moisture levels in your walls and floors, which can help identify areas affected by a hidden leak.
Leak detection services can also perform a pressure test on your plumbing system to check for any leaks. This involves pumping air into the system and monitoring the pressure for any drops, indicating a leak.
Preventing Leaky Pipes
A few basic approaches will also help you avoid the need for leak detection services in the first place. Regular inspections and maintenance can help prevent leaks from occurring. Pay attention to any warning signs, such as changes in water pressure or unusual sounds coming from your pipes.
Furthermore, if your pipes are old and prone to leaks, you may want to consider replacing them with newer, more durable materials. Copper pipes are less likely to corrode and develop leaks compared to older galvanized steel pipes.
At City Creek Plumbing, we’re here to help with any plumbing repair service needs around Layton or Kaysville, including for a suspected leaking pipe. Contact us today for assistance with this or any other plumbing need!