Slab leaks constitute one of the biggest problems a homeowner might face: an otherwise normal leak in a length of pipe placed under the foundation or the house, or in some cases even embedded inside the cement of the foundation. The leak itself is less of an issue than the difficulty in reaching it, as well as the immense difficulty in realizing it’s there in the first place. By the time the homeowner realizes that something’s amiss, the damage has been done. Here in Chicago, IL, professional plumbing services have the equipment to detect a slab leak and begin repair proceedings. But you have to spot the signs of trouble before you can call them in. Here’s a few brief ways to detect a slab leak in your home.
- Higher water bills. Slab leaks waste water, which you’ll ultimately pay for in the form of a higher monthly bill. If you spot an unexpected spike in your water bill, despite the fact that you haven’t used your plumbing any more than normal, you might be looking at a slab leak.
- Unexpected puddles. Slab leaks don’t normally reveal the presence of water until things are pretty far good. Puddles may show up around the edges of your foundation, and you may even spot beads of precipitation on your porch or foundation where none should be.
- Hot or cold spots. If the slab leak takes place in a hot water pipe, you may be able to spot it by the presence of a warm spot on your patio or foundation. Cold spots are harder to detect, but they can also point towards a slab leak.
- Running water sounds. You may not be able to see the water leaking from the pertinent pipe, but you might be able to hear dripping sounds or even the sounds of running water.
If you spot the signs of a slab leak, turn off the system and contact the experts at Reliance Plumbing now!