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How to Detect Subtle Leaks Before They Become Emergencies

pipe-with-blue-cloth-tied-around-leakIn an ideal world, you’d never need an emergency plumber in Evanston, IL. Unfortunately, however, the occasional plumbing emergency is almost a rite of passage for any homeowner. In fact, it’s one of the most common home problems we deal with around here.

Even a minor leak such as a dripping faucet can waste gallons of water over the course of a year—as much as they trick you into thinking they’re not a big deal. The good news is, there are signs you can watch out for that indicate you have a leak, before that leak becomes a huge, costly and home damaging emergency.

Sign #1: High Water Bills

Spotting water leaks as soon as they start is of course the best scenario, but it’s not always realistic. The truth is, sometimes leaks don’t really start showing obvious symptoms until they’ve gotten pretty bad. This doesn’t mean, however, that they aren’t causing unseen damage.

This sounds like bad news, and it could be. But, there is something you can do on a monthly basis to help detect leaks before they get too bad—check your water bill! Don’t just blindly pay it—make sure the amount you’re being charged aligns with your water usage. If your bills seems to be steadily rising or have spike all of the sudden, there is a very good chance that water is escaping your plumbing system somewhere you’re not aware of.

Sign #2: The Sound of Running Water with No Explanation

Sometimes it’s not that you have to watch for a problem, but rather that you need to listen for a problem. Water makes a sound as its running. So, if you hear water running, make sure you know the source! Don’t assume the sound is coming from outside or someone’s using a faucet when it’s not likely.

Walk around your home and make sure nothing is on, of course, or that you’re not hearing the toilet running or someone taking a shower—but if not, you’re probably hearing water leak from your plumbing system somewhere. Be sure to contact our team so we can use the right tools to accurately locate the leak and take the steps to repair it.

Sign #3: A Musty Odor in Your Home

Damp conditions can lead to the growth and development of mold, mildew, and other biological contaminants. You should never just assume this smell is normal. If you detect an odor like this inside your home, the best thing you can do is give our team a call. You can’t rectify these problems on your own.

You could very likely have a plumbing leak behind a wall or beneath a slab that is causing mold growth. Of course, there are other sources and causes of mold and mildew growth, but the only way to rule a plumbing leak out is by calling a professional plumber!

For expert plumbing service, installations, or maintenance contact Reliance Plumbing Sewer & Drainage, Inc. Our knowledgeable plumbers serve the North Shore and Northwest Chicago suburbs. Rely on Reliance!

 

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