4 Signs You May Have A Pipe Leak Behind Your Wall
Out of sight, out of mind. Many of today's homes are built with the majority of their plumbing hidden behind walls, which is nice from an aesthetics standpoint. However, when plumbing leaks occur, this hidden placement can also make it difficult to detect and repair leaky pipes. Meanwhile, mold, mildew, and rot could be occurring behind your home's drywall.
By being aware of some of the most common signs of pipe leaks behind walls, you can hopefully detect problems sooner and know when to call a plumber.
1. Visible Staining or Discoloration
Any kind of unexplained staining or discoloration along one of your home's walls could be indicative of a pipe leak. Usually, a leaking pipe behind a wall will leave a "sheet" of discoloration below the source of the leak as gravity carries water down the wall and to the ground. However, any staining of your home's drywall could be indicative of a leak, regardless of the size or shape of the stain.
2. Sounds of Dripping or Rushing Water
If you can actually hear dripping or rushing water behind your walls, this is an emergency situation that calls for immediate shut-off of your home's water supply and a phone call to an emergency plumber. Locate your home's water shut-off valve, which is usually located in a utility room near your water heater.
3. Unexplained Rise in Water Bills/Usage
Sometimes, slow leaks can be very hard to diagnose. One potential "red flag" to watch for would be a sudden rise in your home's water usage without explanation. Even a slight rise could be a clue that you're dealing with a small, hidden leak that needs to be addressed. Keep a close eye on your water use each month and make note of any anomalies.
4. Tripped Circuit Breakers
When a pipe leaks water onto nearby electrical wiring, this can trip circuits on certain outlets in your home. If you're finding that a circuit is frequently tripping with no good explanation, this could be a sign of underlying water damage. Your best bet is to shut off supply to the breaker until you're able to have a professional take a look.
Water damage in the home can be a huge hassle to deal with, but by detecting leaks in walls early, you can hopefully avoid a lot of the cost and stress associated with leaky pipes. And remember, if all else fails, your home insurance policy may cover water damage caused by leaking pipes. Check your policy to find out. To learn more, contact your local pipe repair service today.
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