Water issues in your home are never pleasant, and most require professional attention to fix. One of the biggest issues that can affect your home’s water supply is a slab leak or other leaks in your water line.
A slab leak is simply a leak that has formed in the pipes that run below the home’s foundation. Leaks that go undetected and unattended can cause huge problems, such as foundation problems, mold damage, and pest infestations.
The water line is responsible for supplying water to your entire home. If it develops an issue, it can adversely affect every water appliance in the house. Learn the subtle and not-so-subtle warning signs of a water line or slab leak problem. If you notice any of these signs, contact a professional plumber immediately!
Signs You Need Water Line/Slab Leak Repair or Replacement
Discolored Water
If you turn on a faucet in your home and brown or yellow water comes out, you have a problem. Discoloration in a home’s water is caused by rust somewhere in the pipe system.
It’s possible that the rust is located in your water heater tank, which can start to oxidize if the sacrificial anode rod fails. However, it can also be a sign that a pipe in your water line is rusting. Either way, discolored water shouldn’t be ignored.
Drop in Water Pressure
If your water pressure suddenly drops, the first thing you should do is check the water line. A large enough leak can cause a noticeable drop in pressure. Sometimes, pipes in the ground get corroded or punctured by roots and start leaking.
Low water pressure could also mean that you have excessive mineral deposits that are restricting the water flow.
If you aren’t getting any water at all, the line may have ruptured. It is very important that you call a plumber as soon as possible if you notice this issue.
Rust and Corrosion
Older water pipes used to be made of iron, which is very susceptible to rust when exposed to water. In more recent decades, almost all water pipes are constructed of copper, which is far more resistant to corrosion and oxidization.
Resistant doesn’t mean immune, however. You should inspect those sections of your water line that are visible for signs of corrosion on a regular basis. If you see any part of your pipes with white, chalky deposits or green spots, contact a plumber to replace that pipe section.
Soggy patches of ground
If you start to notice soggy patches of ground or small pools of water in your yard, it could mean that your sewer or water line is leaking underneath. If you also smell sewage, it’s probably your sewer line. Call a plumber immediately.
Higher water bill
If you suddenly notice that your water bill is higher for no apparent reason, it could mean that you have a leak somewhere in your home. If there is any unexplained spike in your utility bills, it might be related to your main water line. After ruling out the possibilities, contact a professional plumber to investigate.
Warm basement floor
If you notice any warm patches in your floor, a hot water line could have sprung a leak underneath the slab. You may also notice water damage, such as mold, wet floor, and cracks in floors and walls.
At this point, a slab leak repair can get very expensive. It’s important to stay alert to potential signs of a water line or slab leak. Be on the lookout for these signs of a water line or slab leak.
If you notice a leaking pipe anywhere in your home, don’t ignore it! Contact a professional plumber immediately and try these temporary leaking pipe fixes while you wait.
As soon as you notice a water line or slab leak problem, contact your reliable Birmingham plumber — OnTime Service. Call us at (205) 942-1405 or fill out our online form to schedule quick, on-time HVAC, electrical, or plumbing service.
