How Homeowners Can Catch Water Leaks

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Tips to Catch Leaks and Prevent More High Water Bills 

Quick leak detection is vital to home maintenance, whether it’s a subtle leak under the kitchen sink or a geyser shooting from the toilet. However, many water leaks won’t be that obvious. The longer a leak goes unaddressed, the more water and money it wastes, and the more water damage can occur. These problems do not fix themselves and don’t get better with time. That’s why it’s so important for homeowners to know the signs of a leak and act quickly. Here, one can learn about common signs for spotting leaks.

Know the Signs of a Leak 

Some signs that can indicate a leak include: 

  • Mold growth: Mold grows where there’s water and moisture and can cause respiratory problems and other health issues.  
  • Poor water pressure: If a leak interrupts the flow of water, it can affect the water pressure of showerheads and faucets.  
  • The sound of running water: If no faucet, showerhead, or other water-using fixture or appliance is on, a homeowner shouldn’t hear running water. If they do, this could mean there’s a leak. 

Time is of the essence when finding and fixing a leak. A leak wastes more than just water; it can damage personal property, saturate drywall, and attract rodents. As soon as signs of a leak are noticed, a plumber should be called to locate and repair the leak. 

High Water Bills Indicate Leaks 

billBecause leaks waste water, higher than normal water costs without a change in water usage indicates there’s a leak. Even tiny leaks like a dripping faucet can waste a lot of water and money. When there’s a leak, homeowners may find themselves spending even more, not just on water bills but from the secondary consequences of a leak, including: 

  • Mold remediation 
  • Replacing soggy or damaged flooring
  • Repairing water damage to the home’s foundation 
  • Controlling humidity with a dehumidifier 

Nobody wants to spend more money than they have to. That’s why when a homeowner suspects they have a leak, they should consult a professional immediately to prevent additional costs and damage to the home. 

Check the Reading on the Water Meter 

water meterThe water meter is an essential tool that lets homeowners know how much water passes into the plumbing system. Some water meters measure water by the gallons, while others measure by the cubic foot. It depends on the house's age and the water meter itself. 

Whenever somebody flushes the toilet or washes their hands, the number increases. So, if a homeowner is concerned about a leak, they can use their water meter to check for it. Here’s how to use a water meter to check for leaks: 

  • Turn off the water main or stop using any water-using devices or fixtures
  • Write down the number on the water meter 
  • Wait around an hour without using any water  
  • Check the reading on the water meter again to see if there’s a change

If the number has increased without the household using any water, this means that a leak is causing water to be wasted, and a plumber should be called. 

About Falcon Plumbing 

Falcon Plumbing has over thirty years of experience serving Miami and the surrounding areas. They offer flat-rate pricing and personal attention and never take shortcuts or cut corners. Call them today for water leak detection and repair services in Miami, FL.

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A Beginner's Guide to Slab Leaks

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What Every Homeowner Should Know About Slab Leaks

No one wants to deal with a plumbing issue in their home. Sometimes homeowners ignore things because it seems easier than dealing with the problem. Unfortunately, this may end up causing more damage and lead to a plumbing emergency. Slab leaks are one such problem. They are often difficult to detect and can cause significant damage if not dealt with. This blog will discuss slab leaks, their dangers, and how professional plumbers can fix them

What is a Slab Leak?

A slab is a concrete foundation that supports a building structure. It lies beneath the structure's floors and usually extends several feet below ground level. A slab leak is a water leak that occurs in the plumbing pipes underneath this concrete foundation. These leaks are typically caused by corrosion of the lines or a poor connection between two pipe sections. 

Diagnosis of slab leaks is difficult due to their location beneath the concrete. Early signs of a potential slab leak include discoloration of walls or floors, a musty odor in the home, unusual sounds from the plumbing system when no water is being used, and an unexpected increase in the water bill. If any of these signs are noticed, call a professional plumber for inspection immediately. Taking action early on can help avoid more costly repairs down the road.

The Negative Effects of Slab Leaks

saveSlab leaks can lead to various consequences for homeowners, some more serious than others. Like any leak, a slab leak wastes water and can cause high water bills. Slab leaks can also cause significant damage if left unchecked, leading to flooding and water damage in the structure above the slab and costly repairs. 

Water from the leak can seep into walls and flooring, creating unsightly mold growth, warping wood floors, and causing other structural damage. So, in addition to higher water costs, slab leaks can cause expensive repairs and cleanups due to the structural and water damage they can cause. If left unchecked, this moisture can lead to the growth of mold, which is a serious health hazard.

Slab Leak Detection and Repair Services

detectionAn inexperienced homeowner cannot deal with slab leaks. It is a job for professionals. They have special tools and equipment, allowing them to detect leaks and perform slab leak repair safely and efficiently. Professionals use advanced technology such as electronic amplifiers, acoustic listening devices, and pressure testing to locate cracks or leaks in the concrete foundation beneath a home. 

Once the leak has been identified, they can recommend the most effective solution to repair it. Repair methods vary based on the severity and type of leak. They may excavate and replace the damaged part of the pipe or use epoxy pipe liners to seal the broken line. A professional will ensure the slab leak is handled, preventing further damage.

About Falcon Plumbing

Falcon Plumbing has over 30 years of experience serving Miami residents and the surrounding areas. They provide upfront pricing, same-day service, and personal attention. Call them today for slab leak repair services in Miami, FL

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