It’s essential to call a plumber promptly if you suspect a leak, but it’s not always obvious that there’s a problem. Leaks can cause your bills to skyrocket and lead to unexpected emergency plumbing situations, too. To save your home — and your wallet — from damage, here’s what you need to know.

How Can You Tell If You Have a Plumbing Leak?

1. You Hear Running Water

The sound of water running through the pipes when no one is using the shower or sink is usually an indication of a leak somewhere in the home. The noise indicates that water is moving somewhere unprompted by you. It’s not always easy to determine the location of the water, so you should have a plumber inspect it to prevent a more serious issue.

2. Your Water Bills Shoot Up

It’s not unusual for water bills to rise during the winter, when people are likely to take warmer, longer showers. But if you notice a consistent uptick in your costs during the summer without any reasonable explanation, it could be due to a plumbing leak. One way to determine if it’s a recent issue is to compare the previous month’s bill to the most recent one. If the bill is high and you haven’t had any notable changes to your water usage, a leak is likely.

3. You Smell Something Musty

Leaks that go undetected for a while can cause mold and mildew to develop in the home. Sometimes the first sign of a problem is a harsh, musty odor. Bathrooms, kitchens, basements, laundry rooms, and attics are all likely areas where such a problem is likely to develop due to a leak. Call a plumber right away if you smell something unusual; mold can spread quickly and cause structural damage and health concerns if not resolved in time.

Homeowners and businesses throughout Texarkana, AR, trust the team at Service First Electrical and Plumbing for all of their emergency plumbing needs. These reliable plumbers can handle even the most challenging leaks, whether it’s a broken pipe or an issue with the water heater. They’ll work quickly to resolve the problem so you don’t have to worry about serious concerns like mold and skyrocketing bills. Visit them online to learn more about their services, or call (870) 772-5026 to schedule an appointment today.