How To Identify Common Plumbing Leaks

Plumbing leaks can show up in ways you’d never expect. Though some are easy to spot, others lurk undetected until they wreak havoc on your home’s integrity. Knowing what to look for can save you time, money, and the headache of major repairs. In this guide, our plumbers at Napps Cooling, Heating & Plumbing brief you on how to spot leaks, where they tend to happen, and how to stop them before they start. By the end, you’ll be more confident in recognizing when it’s time to get help from a professional plumber.

Signs You Have a Plumbing Leak

Detecting a plumbing leak isn’t always straightforward, but some clues can help you discover the leak. Keep an eye out for the following:

• Over-the-top water bill: An unexplained surge in your water bill, even with normal usage, often points to a hidden leak wasting water. Check for leaks in areas like outdoor faucets, irrigation systems, or less frequently used fixtures.
• Greener lawn patches: Lone areas of grass that appear unusually vibrant or damp can indicate an underground pipe leak compromising the soil.
• Visible mold or mildew: Mold or mildew in areas without regular exposure to moisture suggests a hidden leak creating excess humidity. Jumping on the leak quickly can prevent further damage and reduce health complications caused by mold spores.
• Discoloration on walls or ceilings: Yellowish or brown stains are a clear sign of water leaking behind walls or above ceilings. Run your hand along the surface to check for dampness and look for peeling paint or wallpaper as additional indicators.
• Puddles or wet spots around fixtures: Pools of water near sinks, toilets, or appliances signal a leak that could be coming from loose connections or damaged pipes. Turn off the water supply to the affected area and monitor for further leaks to prevent water damage.

Common Areas for Plumbing Leaks

Certain parts of your plumbing system are more prone to leaks due to frequent use, pressure, or wear and tear. Kitchen and bathroom fixtures like faucets, sinks, and showerheads are common culprits, as are the seals and connections on appliances like dishwashers and washing machines. Underground pipes and outdoor systems like spigots or irrigation lines can also develop leaks from shifting soil, age, or damage. Even water heaters can leak over time as sediment builds up or valves wear out. Checking these areas periodically can help you identify potential problems early.

Preventing Plumbing Leaks

Taking preventative steps can significantly reduce the likelihood of leaks. Insulating exposed pipes helps protect them from cracking due to temperature fluctuations. Regular plumbing inspections allow professionals to identify and fix small issues before they escalate.

What’s more, a water softener can prevent mineral buildup inside pipes, reducing the strain that leads to leaks. Lastly, we encourage monitoring your system’s water pressure with a pressure gauge to ensure your pipes aren’t under excessive stress.

When To Call a Professional Plumber

Minor issues like dripping faucets might be manageable on your own, but dire leaks or breakdowns deserve an expert eye. Hidden leaks behind walls or under floors can go undetected without specialized tools and expertise. Persistent issues like rising water bills or recurring wet spots suggest a larger problem that requires a professional’s skill and training to ensure safety. Major leaks in appliances or underground pipes can quickly cause significant damage and should be addressed by a licensed plumber to ensure an effective, long-term solution.

Schedule Leak Detection & Repairs Today

For 65+ years, Napps Cooling, Heating & Plumbing has been the team Longview-area homeowners call for leak detection and repair when they want things done right. Our licensed and insured plumbers combine time-tested expertise with the latest technology to provide solutions that optimize your home’s entire plumbing system. We don’t leave a job until every detail has been triple-checked, ensuring lasting results you can trust. With same-day service, 24/7 emergency availability, and pricing that’s clear from the start, we deliver professionalism you can see and reliability you can feel.

Get in touch with us today to schedule your leak detection and repair service in Longview, TX.