Since the New Year is the best time for meaningful changes, you should consider the care of your home. One of the most important but ignored household tasks is checking your home’s plumbing for leaks. Even a minor leak can result in increased water bills, expensive repairs and even damage to the foundation of your house. The best way to avoid these headaches includes starting the year with a thorough plumbing check.
The Hidden Cost of Ignoring Plumbing Leaks
Leaks are more than an inconvenience. They also waste water; raise bills; and cause walls, floors, and ceilings unseen damage. What seemed to be only a minor drip can degrade your home’s integrity over time. Mold and mildew grow in damp areas, and such growth may affect your air quality and health.
Winter months add another layer of risk. Cold weather can cause pipes to freeze and crack, creating leaks that might not be visible right away.
How to Spot Plumbing Problems Early
Sometimes, leaks are hidden, and other signs may signal that there is an issue. Some of these signs include peeling paint, water stains on walls and ceilings, damp spots on the floor, a sudden drop in water pressure, and unexplained increases in your water bill. You can also turn off all the taps and see if you can hear running water. Even the faintest dripping sound may point to a hidden leak.
The Importance of Professional Inspections
You can find some problems yourself, but most leaks are actually inside the walls, under the floor or even in your yard. Specialized equipment, such as moisture meters and infrared cameras, may be needed to detect the issue or the exact location of the problem.
New Year, New Habits: Preventing Future Leaks
While it’s great to start the year with a plumbing inspection, checkups also help identify problems early. To help avoid plumbing leaks in your home, do not pour down grease, food particles or other debris in your drains as these build up and create pressure inside that could weaken the pipes.
It also helps to check the water pressure. High water pressure puts additional stress on your plumbing system, which increases the chances of leaks. You can buy a water pressure gauge or hire one of our plumbers to check your system and save yourself from unnecessary repairs.
A Resolution Worth Keeping
This year, resolve to pay more attention to your home’s plumbing. A little attention now can prevent costly repairs, preserve your home’s value and reduce water waste. When you need dependable leak detection services for your home in Waldorf, MD, call A Better Plumber.
