COMMON CAUSES OF HOUSEHOLD LEAKS

Running water and sanitary sewer systems are key household advancements that have improved quality of life. However, if a problem occurs with pipes, drain lines, plumbing fixtures, or any water-using appliance, leaks can develop, leading to significant household damage, including rot, mold growth, wall and ceiling discoloration, sagging floors and ceilings, peeling paint, increased water bills, and a decrease in the water pressure.

Use this guide to learn more about common causes of household leaks and how to prevent them.

Signs Of A Household Leak

• Inexplicable water bill increase.

• Sudden decrease in water pressure when no other fixtures are being used.

• The sound of running water, rattling, or hissing when the plumbing fixtures are turned off.

• Mold and mildew accumulation.

• Peeling or blistering paint or wallpaper.

• Warped, stained, or sagging floors and ceilings.

1. Faulty faucets and toilets

If they don’t create rot or water damage, leaks can go completely unnoticed if you aren’t paying attention to your water bills. Instead, the water runs directly into the drain, such as when a toilet continues to run or when leaking faucets constantly drip.

Fixing a running toilet can be as simple as shortening the flapper chain or replacing the flapper. Replacing the washer in the faucet may prevent it from dripping, but if the water keeps leaking into the sink, it’s a good idea to invest in a new faucet.

2.

Loose or broken hose connections

Leaks can occur outside the home as well, so if you notice any wet spots or areas in the yard that appear to be sunken down, it can indicate an underground leak. Loose or broken hose and irrigation system connections can cause puddles, soil erosion around the foundation of the home, and sink holes if left unresolved.

Fix this problem by locating the leak, then tightening the connection to stop the leak. If the issue is due to a cracked, split, or otherwise damaged connection, the connector and any other damaged parts of the system will need to be replaced.

3.

Cracked sink or tub

Tubs, sinks, and basins are used to catch and redirect the flow of water into an open drain, but if the body is cracked, water can leak out, causing mold, mildew, and rot. Cracks can occur as a result of frequent use, general wear and tear, impact damage, or corrosion.

If you see a crack forming in the bathtub or notice a small crack spreading across the sink, it’s necessary to stop using the damaged item.

4. Worn out seals

Sinks, toilets, and tubs aren’t the only items that can lead to a leak. Dishwashers, refrigerators, and washing machines frequently use water during regular operation. If the seals or washers on these appliances become old, worn, or misshapen, it can cause the appliance to leak. Fixing this problem isn’t necessarily difficult, as long as you can find a replacement seal.

5. Clogged drain lines

When a drain line clogs, the water that would usually drain into the sewer or septic system has nowhere to go. Instead, the drain line fills up as more and more water is poured into the drain, until it completely backs up into the sink, tub, appliance, or laundry basin. In some cases, a clog can even lead to a burst pipe.

You may be able to clear a clogged drain with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar, but if this chemical reaction is not enough to break up the clog, a plumber’s snake or a drain auger may be required.