While a leaky pipe could be hidden in your walls or under your foundation for months or even longer, you will typically have some sort of sign a leak is occurring. The first is the aforementioned dripping sound which can be incredibly frustrating. If there is a bathroom located next to a portion of your house you don’t enter very often, check it periodically to make sure there are no leaks in the faucet or showerhead.
Here are a few tips on how to tell if there is a leak in different components of your plumbing system:
- Faucets — You might notice rust or puddles of water pooling around the bottom of a drain or a faucet. While this is often an indication of a clog, it could also be a sign of a leaky pipe. A leaking faucet, for example, can result in a pool of water that is reddish or rusty in color. If a faucet is squeaking, that is also a sign of an issue.
- Toilets — There are many ways you can tell that you might have a leaking toilet. For example, you might hear groaning or bubbling noises from the pipes near the commode, or you might see a mysterious spot of water on the floor in your bathroom. Tiles or flooring may be uneven, or you might notice a smell of sewer gas or mold.
- Washing machine — The washing machine is a common source of residential plumbing problems due to leaks. If you notice a musty smell near the machine or you see small accumulations of water that probably means you have a leak in either a hose or the appliance itself.
- Water heaters — A leaking water heater can be especially frustrating because you might not notice it immediately. If you notice any excess moisture near the tank or you see a small puddle, that could mean you have a leak, and you’ll need to replace the unit. Be alert to dripping noises or any unusual sounds, because that could also mean you have a problem.
Higher water bills are also dead giveaways. If you see an unexpected spike in your bill, that should be a red alert that you have some sort of leak. Odd odors, such as smells that seem like rotten or moldy food, can also indicate leaks.