7 Signs You May Have a Plumbing Leak

Not every plumbing leak announces itself with water pouring across the floor. Some leaks can go unnoticed for weeks or even months, slowly causing damage behind walls, under floors, or around your plumbing fixtures. The good news is that your home will often give you a few warning signs before a hidden leak becomes a much bigger problem. Here are seven things to watch for.

1. Your Water Bill Suddenly Goes Up

If your water usage hasn't changed but your bill has, there may be water going somewhere it shouldn't. A small leak might not seem like much from day to day, but even a slow drip can add up over time. If you notice an unexplained increase in your water bill, it's worth taking a closer look.

2. You Notice a New Stain on a Wall or Ceiling

Water stains are one of the more obvious signs that something may be leaking behind the surface. Watch for yellow or brown discoloration, bubbling paint, peeling wallpaper, or drywall that feels soft. Even if the area isn't currently wet, a stain can indicate that water has been getting into the area.

3. There's a Musty Smell That Won't Go Away

Sometimes you'll smell a plumbing problem before you see it. Persistent damp or musty odors can be a sign that moisture is collecting somewhere it shouldn't. If you've cleaned the area and the smell keeps coming back, there may be a hidden source of moisture that needs to be investigated.

4. Your Water Pressure Has Changed

A noticeable change in water pressure can have several causes, and a plumbing leak is one possibility. If the pressure throughout your home suddenly seems lower than usual, especially when nothing else has changed, it may be worth having your plumbing system checked.

5. You Hear Water When Everything Is Turned Off

Your house should be pretty quiet when no one is using water. If all of your faucets, appliances, toilets, and other fixtures are off but you still hear dripping or running water, don't ignore it. That sound could be coming from water moving somewhere you can't see.

6. You Find Unexplained Moisture

A damp cabinet, wet spot on the floor, moisture around a fixture, or an area that never seems to completely dry could point to a plumbing problem. Pay particular attention to areas around sinks, toilets, tubs, showers, water heaters, and appliances connected to your plumbing system.

7. Your Water Meter Keeps Moving

Your water meter can be a useful tool when you're trying to determine whether you might have a leak. Turn off faucets, appliances, and anything else in your home that uses water. Then check your water meter. If it continues to show water usage when everything is off, there could be a leak somewhere in the plumbing system.

What Should You Do If You Suspect a Leak?

The earlier you catch a plumbing leak, the better. What starts as a small plumbing problem can eventually lead to water damage and more expensive repairs if it isn't addressed. If something doesn't seem right, Step By Step Plumbing can help you figure out what's going on. We provide plumbing repairs and inspections throughout the Greater Richmond, Virginia area and will walk you through what we find and your options for fixing it.

If you suspect a plumbing leak in your home or business, contact Step By Step Plumbing to request service.