Did you know the average household leak wastes about 10,000 gallons of water each year? That’s a statistic that results in costly water bills and damage, but the problem can be mitigated when caught early. When you need the assistance of a plumber, your home will often display some common signs. Here are a few tips to help you identify leaks that may not be obvious.

5 Signs of Plumbing Leaks in Your Home

1. Unusually High Water Bills

There are many ways to explain a fluctuating water bill. Maybe your kids are home from college. Maybe you’ve been taking more baths. Or perhaps you’re watering your lawn more frequently.

However, when you can’t put your finger on why your water bill is higher than usual, you may have a leak. If you think you see a discrepancy, compare the bill to previous months. Even a small leak can result in elevated water consumption.

2. Sagging Structures

If your floors, walls, or ceilings are distorted, you could be facing water damage. Moisture warps wood and causes paint to peel, so if you notice these issues, call a plumbing company. 

3. Mildew & Mold

Mold and mildew are fungi. It’s normal to spot them in small amounts around your shower, but seeing these outside your bathroom is a red flag. Look for stains on your walls, floors, and ceilings. Spotting these may hint at moisture trapped beneath them, so when in doubt, consult a plumber.

4. Musty Smells

Even if moisture is trapped within your walls, you may still smell it. Water damage tends to produce strong odors. The musty smell could also be a sign of mold.

5. Pooled Water

Though hidden plumbing leaks are often traced to pipes inside your walls, they can also happen on fixtures. For example, fittings around tubs and toilets often become loose over time. Leaks from these units can drip through the floor and cause damage.

It’s recommended that you examine your entire plumbing system twice per year for plumbing leaks to prevent damage before it occurs. Any pooled water could indicate an issue.

Miller Plumbing Inc of Rush, NY, offers superb plumbing services with high-quality craftsmanship and competitive pricing. The family-owned business has been helping customers for over 50 years. No matter what services you need, their plumbers have the experience to solve the issue. Call them for a free estimate at (585) 533-1404 or visit their website to learn more about their work.