Your Guide to Common Plumbing Leaks: How to Spot and Stop Them

There are few things more unsettling for a homeowner than the discovery of a plumbing leak. A persistent drip, a soggy spot on the ceiling, or an unexplained spike in your water bill can be a source of major stress. At Drake Mechanical, we’ve been helping our neighbors in Boise and the entire Treasure Valley with plumbing issues since 1909, and we know that catching a leak early is the best way to prevent extensive damage. This guide will walk you through some of the most common types of leaks and what you can do to address them.

The Tell-Tale Signs of a Leak

Sometimes a leak is obvious, like a gushing pipe under your sink. Other times, it’s far more subtle. Being aware of the hidden signs can save you a significant amount of money and hassle down the road. Keep an eye out for these red flags:

• Unexplained Water Bill Increase: If your water usage habits haven’t changed but your bill has skyrocketed, a hidden leak is likely the culprit. Even a small, constant drip can waste hundreds of gallons of water over time.

• Water Stains or Discoloration: Brown or yellow stains on your ceiling, walls, or floors are a clear indicator that water is escaping from a pipe somewhere above. Don’t ignore these spots; they almost always point to a serious issue.

• Musty Odors: The smell of mildew or mold, especially in areas like under sinks, in basements, or in bathrooms, can be caused by standing water from a leak.

• Peeling Paint or Wallpaper: Water leaking behind a wall will eventually cause the surface materials to bubble, peel, or warp.

• The Sound of Running Water: If you hear the faint sound of water running when all faucets and appliances are turned off, there’s a good chance you have a leak somewhere in your home’s plumbing system.

Common Places Leaks Occur

Leaks can happen anywhere, but some areas are more prone to them than others. Your first step in hunting for a leak should be to check these high-risk zones:

• Dripping Faucets and Showerheads: While seemingly minor, a dripping faucet can waste thousands of gallons of water annually. Often, this is a simple fix involving a new washer or O-ring, but sometimes it can indicate a deeper problem with the valve.

• Under Sinks: Your kitchen and bathroom cabinets are home to a maze of pipes and connections. Regularly check under your sinks for any moisture, rust on pipes, or a musty smell.

• Toilets: A running toilet is a very common type of leak. A faulty flapper or fill valve can cause water to constantly run from the tank into the bowl. This is often easily fixed, but if left unaddressed, it can lead to a surprisingly large water bill.

• Water Heaters: Your water heater is under constant pressure and can develop leaks as it ages. Be on the lookout for puddles around the base of the unit, and remember that rust or corrosion are signs of trouble.

• Hidden Pipe Leaks: The most difficult leaks to deal with are those hidden behind walls, in the foundation, or under a slab. These often require professional leak detection to locate without causing damage to your home.

When to Call a Professional

While some minor leaks can be a DIY project, it’s crucial to know when to call in the experts. If you have a suspected leak behind a wall, a sudden loss of water pressure, or a noticeable puddle that you can’t locate the source of, it’s time to bring in the pros. Our team at Drake Mechanical has the experience and state-of-the-art equipment to find and fix any leak, big or small. We’re available 24/7, so you never have to wait.

Don’t let a small leak turn into a major disaster. If you suspect you have a leak, call Drake Mechanical today at (208) 362-6300 or schedule an appointment online. Our friendly, expert plumbers are ready to help keep your home and plumbing system in top condition.