Whenever there’s a leak somewhere in your plumbing system, water gets wasted and costs you extra. Aside from apparent signs like wet spots and spurting water, here are a few more symptoms to look out for so you know when to seek repairs.

How to Tell You Have Plumbing Leaks

1. Mold & Mildew Growth

Mold manifests with excess moisture in your airtight home, so its presence should alert you to a water leak nearby. While it’s common to see a bit of mildew in the bathroom, finding it in unlikely places like the ceilings, floors, carpets, or drywall is another matter altogether. Pay attention to persistent musty or earthy smells that indicate mold and mildew as well.

2. High Water Bills

Look out for an unusual spike in your utility expenses without a notable increase in consumption. Compare your bill from the prior year’s same period—if there’s a significant rise, then there’s a high chance of leaks in your plumbing.

To confirm the problem, shut down every water valve. If your water meter keeps running, there’s a leak somewhere.

3. Peeling Paint & Unsightly Stains

Water damage from leaky lines becomes more evident when left unchecked for too long. If you see blisters, cracks, bubbles, and peeling on interior painting, it means there’s water present or running underneath the surface. This may also present as brown, unsightly stains on the wall, ceiling, or floors.

4. Structural Damage

When left alone long enough, a leak can even result in structural damage. Water can seep through most building materials. Waterlogged wood in your ceiling, walls, or floors will decay and soften; it may break or collapse under a heavy load.

Plumbing leaks can also cause the ground to shift and settle, damaging the foundation and undermining its structural integrity. Watch out for hairline cracks on the walls of your foundation.

At the first signs of leaks, call on the professionals from A-1 Budget Plumbing. They’ve provided top-notch residential plumbing services—from water heater installation to drain cleaning—throughout Honolulu for over two decades. Call (808) 526-3747 to set up an appointment, or view their full list of services online.