An inexplicable jump in your water bill? The sound of running water with all the faucets off? Some homeowners find themselves concerned that a leak is at work behind the walls. Should any of this be familiar, you will want to read on. We are Dipple Heating, Cooling, Plumbing, Electrical and for our part we have been of service in Upstate South Carolina since 1979; our people can spot a hidden plumbing problem before it becomes something expensive. You can put us on the phone day or night at (864) 319-3682.
A leak is not one to make a fuss about. It will be quiet and unassuming under the floor or in the yard until weeks have passed and the homeowner is none the wiser. But there are clues to be had if one is observant.
Your Water Bill Will Tell on You
When usage is unchanged yet the bill continues to rise, you have a clear indication of a leak. There is water going where it ought not be. Before you come across a wet spot a slow drip in the wall or a toilet left running can put hundreds of gallons to waste.
Be Observant of the House
You will often get a sense things are amiss well in advance of locating the cause. Look out for these:
- Fixtures not in use but you can hear them run or drip
- Discoloration or warping on a floor, ceiling or wall
- An odor of mold or mustiness
- Wallpaper or paint coming loose
- No apparent reason for a drop in water pressure
- Soggy ground or puddles in the yard
- A hot spot on the floor from a compromised hot water line
Find one and it is worth an investigation. More than one is a sure sign of a leak underway.
Moisture and Mold
The humidity of an Upstate South Carolina summer is enough on its own, but a concealed leak puts more moisture in the air, which is what mold thrives on. Unusual growth in a closet corner or behind some pieces of furniture is likely being fed by excess water. Let it go and it will compromise the air quality for your family. Not to mention standing water has a way of rotting the wood framing and insulation, undermining the structure of the home. An early catch is what keeps a repair from turning into a renovation.
Toilets and Other Fixtures
The toilet is a silent waster of water in most homes. See if yours rocks or runs by itself, or has water at the base. Put some food coloring in the tank as a test; no flush and the bowl is colored, then you have your answer.
It is also a good idea to check under the kitchen and bathroom sink from time to time. Open the cabinet and put your hand to it. Dampness, a stain or a small puddle are ways a fitting is telling you it is on its way out.
There is No Time to Waste
Some put it off in the hope a little drip will end of its own accord. It seldom does. In the meantime the bills mount and you risk unhealthy air and ruined cabinets. A plumber with experience has the means to put an end to it without having to raze the house to do so.
We are the team Upstate South Carolina puts their trust in. Dipple is licensed and insured with an A+ from the BBB and a 4.9 star rating from more than 3,000 Google reviews. We are here 24/7 and back every job with a 100% guarantee.
Do not let the matter worsen if you have seen the signs. For the protection of your home, our leak detection and repair team is ready to help — call Dipple Heating, Cooling, Plumbing, Electrical at (864) 319-3682.