What’s worse than having a leaky pipe? Not knowing you have one! According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), “10% of homes have leaks that waste 90 gallons or more per day.” You might have already seen images of what a dripping faucet can look like in freezing weather. Still, the reality is that hidden leaks are much more costly.
Leak detection services are often reserved for professionals with advanced detection technology, but there are some things you can do to stay one step ahead of potentially devastating damage. We’ll take a deep dive into damaged pipes and what to do to help your home.
The Dangers of Leaking Pipes
Aging pipes and other plumbing components are the biggest cause of leaks. Your gaskets, washers, and pipes can wear down over time, leading to slight leaks at first but also potentially larger issues. The sooner you address a leak, the better.
The EPA estimates a faucet dripping at one drip per second will waste over 3,000 gallons a year. It’s the main reason why the first indication of a leaking pipe or faucet will be a spike in your water bill. In addition to the water waste, the water damage could make repairs dramatically more expensive. Blue Star can help you stay vigilant about possible leaks and what to do when you encounter them.
Identifying Issues in Your Plumbing
We said above that the first sign might be a larger water bill, especially if you don’t immediately see water spots forming on your walls or ceiling. There are a few ways to tell if you have a leak without using state-of-the-art equipment.
- Check the meter: If you suspect a leak, turn off all water-using appliances and faucets. If you have a leak, your meter will either change quickly because of a big leak or slowly because of a small leak. Wait two hours and check again to be sure.
- Check your lawn: Pipes that leak around your home’s foundation will leave puddles of water in your yard. If the leak isn’t that large, you might notice your lawn has patches of greener grass. These inconsistencies warrant a call to the Blue Star team.
- Pay attention to your senses: Leaks inside the home can remain hidden for a while before they become noticeable. If you ever hear dripping sounds in your wall, call a plumber immediately. Another sign you might have a leak is a musty smell around your home. Act whenever you notice something out of place.
The first step is identifying the issue. The next is knowing what to do once you’ve noticed an inconsistency.
Your Old Pipes & Leaks
Homes older than 25 years old will have weaker pipes. In this circumstance, it’s vital to keep up with your plumbing inspections. If you’ve already experienced several leaks, it is time to call Blue Star for a re-piping service.
When we refresh your home with brand new pipes, all that’s needed is a bit of drywall removal and some long-lasting pipes. We take care of the clean-up, test the water, and make sure your home is as good as new afterwards. The best part? You won’t have to deal with old and leaky pipes for a long while.