San Diego might have some of the best weather around but don’t let the sunshine lull you into a false sense of security.
Water leaks can still happen and wreak havoc on your home. It doesn’t matter how dry or hot the weather is, if you’ve got a faulty pipe somewhere, you can definitely expect a leak somewhere down the road.
The problem is that these leaks can be hard to spot since many of them are probably happening somewhere in your home that isn’t accessible to you. But if you leave a leak unfixed for too long, it could lead to expensive repairs and it can even make your home’s indoor environment unhealthy.
So let’s explore how water pipe leak detection is done and when you should consider calling a professional for help.
What are the common signs of a leak?
Here are some telltale signs that your home might be having a water leak somewhere:
1. Unexplained increase in the water bill
This is usually the first sign of a water leak. Compare your current water bill with what you paid last month. If you notice a significant increase in your bill, especially if you haven’t changed your water usage habits, it could be a sign of a leak.
2. The water meter keeps running
Find out where your water meter is; in most cases, you should find it somewhere near the curb outside your home. Now, shut off all the taps and water-using appliances inside the house. Once your meter dial reads 30 minutes, you should stop running the water. If the meter continues to move, you probably have a leak.
3. Sounds of running water
Listen in for the sounds of dripping or rushing water, even when no faucets are open. This could indicate a potential leak behind walls or under the foundation.
4. Damp spots, mold growth
Seeing water damage like warped floorboards, peeling paint, or moldy odors could mean there is a leak, and mold could be growing nearby. Mold is a fungus that grows in wet conditions, so its presence is a strong sign of a leak.
5. Soft spots on floors or walls
Water leaks may cause destruction underneath flooring or behind walls that support your home’s structure. If you experience any sections of the floor feeling spongy or uneven, you should look into the cause.
How can you detect water pipe leaks yourself?
For small, readily accessible leaks, you might be able to handle some preliminary detection yourself. Look for visual signs of leaks around pipes, faucets, toilets, and underneath sinks. Also, search for water marks, cracks, or corrosion on pipes.
Since hot water leaks can cause temperature changes in certain parts of your home, put your hand on pipes and in areas suspected of leaks to feel for unexpected warm regions.
Also, at night with everything turned off, listen for any clicking or hissing sounds that may indicate a leak.
When should you call the San Diego plumber brigade?
Now, not all leaks can be fixed easily. Some water leaks are very complicated and might be in places that you can’t reach. If you don’t have much experience in dealing with leaks, it can be easy to make expensive mistakes and you could end up hurting yourself.
Sometimes it’s better to call in a professional. Here’s when you should call a professional plumber for water pipe leak detection:
1. Suspected slab leak
These leaks occur under the slab of a concrete foundation and detecting them requires advanced equipment and qualified professionals.
2. Leaks in walls or ceilings
Finding leaks in hidden places inside the homes such as in the walls or ceilings can be hard to do so it’s recommended to leave this task to a professional plumber who has the appropriate tools and knowledge to minimize damage during the repair.
3. Extensive water damage
Significant water damage requires prompt and professional intervention to prevent mold growth and structural issues.
4. Undetectable leak source
Sometimes, DIY methods just aren’t good enough to detect water leaks. However, a plumber can use tools like acoustic listening tools, thermal imaging cameras, or electronic leak detectors to pinpoint water leaks.
5. Burst pipes
A broken pipe is one of the most typical plumbing emergencies. Call a plumber right away to stop the water and prevent any further damage.
How can you find your San Diego plumbing champion?
Don’t just call any plumber! Here’s how to find one who won’t disappoint:
1. Assemble your A-team
Ask friends or relatives you know for referrals for plumbers they have had good experiences with. Word-of-mouth recommendations are gold!
2. Online review rescue
Jump into the digital sphere and read reviews on platforms like Google My Business or Yelp to learn about the plumber’s reputation and the quality of their customer service.
3. License to leak-zap
The plumber should possess a valid license issued by the State of California and be backed up with liability and worker’s compensation insurance at all times. It’s all about protection—for you and the plumber!
4. The estimate escapade
Connect with several plumbers and get free quotes to choose the one that is best suited to you. Don’t be shy to ask them in-depth questions.
5. Question time
Don’t be shy in asking them to discuss their water pipe leak detection and repair experience, the way they work, and the warranty on their services. The more you educate yourself, the more prepared you are to make the decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some commonly asked questions we receive from San Diego residents:
1. I don’t hear any running water—how can I be sure there’s a leak?
Not all leaks make noise. You should also look for visual signs of leaks, like damp spots and mold.
2. If the leak is caused by a damaged pipe, will the pipe need to be replaced?
Not always. If the damage is minor, the pipe can be patched up or relined. But if there’s any major damage, like extensive corrosion, you may need to have the pipe replaced.
Contact Voyager Plumbing Today!
Sometimes, even the most significant leaks can be hard to detect when you don’t know what you’re looking for. So it’s always best to call a reliable professional plumber for leak detection and repiping—they can find those leaks quickly and ensure that you’re saved from major water damage and big repair bills.
