Water leaks are something no homeowner wants to deal with, and they can lead to significant losses and damages in your home and property. Leaks in an average household account for nearly 10,000 gallons of wasted water every year, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. These leaks not only waste valuable water, but they can also lead to mold development, flooding, warped and stained walls, and even cracks in your home’s foundation.
So what are the most common locations for leaks to occur, and how can you identify them? Here’s everything you need to know.
Easy-To-Fix Water Leaks
Despite how harmful water leaks can be to a home, they are relatively common. The good news is that the most common leaks are also the easiest to fix. These include
- worn toilet flappers
- dripping faucets and showerheads
- leaking valves
Identifying these leaks is usually fairly straightforward. Start by monitoring your water bill. If your usage jumps significantly between two similar months, that’s a strong indicator of a new leak. You should also listen closely when your house is quiet and see if you can hear water running or dripping anywhere that it shouldn’t be. A toilet that is always running is definitely leaking.
Fixing a toilet leak might be as easy as replacing the flapper. You can find step-by-step instructions for how to do that here, or a licensed plumber can replace it for you quickly and easily. Leaks in a variety of faucets and showerheads can also be fixed relatively easily using new gaskets and Teflon tape. If you’re unsure about how to proceed with fixing a leak, call a plumber to handle the leak repair for you.
Harder-To-Fix Water Leaks
Unfortunately, not all common leaks are easy to fix or identify. Older homes are notorious for having corroded pipes that lead to leaks behind the walls and under the floors. Leaking water is also common in water softeners, water heaters, whole-home humidifiers, water supply lines, swamp coolers, and backyard pools.
Repairing leaks like these takes specialized skills, knowledge, and tools that most homeowners simply don’t have, so if you find a leak in any of these areas, it’s best to call a plumber right away. Attempting to fix a more complicated leak on your own could lead to disastrous consequences and even more needed repairs.
Quick Quality Plumbing Is Here to Help
If you find a water leak in your home or business, Quick Quality Plumbing is here to help. Our expert team of licensed plumbers can repair water leaks quickly and effectively so you can move on knowing your plumbing is in good hands. We offer a full range of plumbing services, including water heater replacement and repair, repiping, plumbing installation, 24/7 emergency services, and more.Our client-focused services are available in American Fork, Orem, Provo, and Lehi, Utah, and the other cities throughout Utah County. Call Quick Quality Plumbing today for a free quote or schedule your plumbing service!
