A leak can quickly turn from a slow drip into a flood. With that comes water damage, money spent, and stress experienced. Doing a routine check for leaks can help save you trouble and money. Here are the most common places you may find a leak.
Under the Sink
With all the water that flows through your sinks, it’s no surprise that this is one of the most common sources of a leak. Taking an occasional look under your sinks (both kitchen and bathroom) will help snuff out any slow leaks that may have started. If you notice that the stuff under your sink is wet, there may be a leak worth investigating.
Though a leak will likely reveal itself to you, it’s also good to inspect the pipes under your sink, looking out for any rotting, corrosion, rust, or loose fittings that may impact performance.
Water Heater
Your water heater is always carrying water, so it’s another prime target for a potential leak. Look out for any water that may be pooling at the base of the tank. You should also look for any damage to the unit, as well as rust or corrosion. Check all lines that lead to and flow from the unit to make sure the connections are stable.
Preventative maintenance on the tank can help prevent problems like this. Flush out the tank once a year and have it inspected by a plumbing professional.
Washing Machine
Make sure to frequently inspect the machine’s tubing, connections, and parts to catch any possible leaks. If you see a leak, unplug the appliance and turn off the water main to investigate.
If you have a front-load machine and water is spilling out the door, it likely means the seal is broken, or the door is not closing all the way. A leak out the back could mean the drain hose is either clogged or not connected properly. If it’s more than a simple reconnection, it’s best to get the whole machine looked at by a professional.
Supply Lines and Pipes
Waterline leaks are less obvious and harder to fix. They almost always require work by a professional plumber. Keep an eye out for pools of water in your yard, which may be a sign of a supply line leak. You might also find water buildup in your meter box, which is another sign of this issue.
If you notice your water bill increasing without your usage increasing, a leak may have occurred. Rust-colored water is another indicator of a possible supply line leak, which should prompt a call to a plumber right away.
Similarly, the pipes that run throughout your home are susceptible to leaks. Look for dark patches on the ceiling or floors, or puddles that seep through cabinets or appliances.
Bathroom Appliances
Toilets can be another common location for leaks. Watch for any puddles that accumulate around the base of the toilet. Also, listen for the tank after you flush. If it takes a long time to refill, it may signal a link somewhere in the system.
Watch for any leaks in your shower or bathtub. A leaking shower head or tub faucet wastes water and therefore wastes money. Low water pressure can also be a sign that there is a leak. And make sure the caulking around your tub and in your tiling is all smooth and unbroken. Cracks can produce openings where water will be excited to travel, giving way to damage in other parts of the house.
At Pioneer Plumbing and Septic, our team of friendly plumbers are ready to help! Call us at (281) 815-2772 to schedule same-day water heater services in Houston! Our team also serves Crosby, TX.