Your Leak Detection Guide

Has your water bill suddenly skyrocketed? Can you hear a maddening trickle coming from behind your walls? Does your house smell just slightly damp? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you need leak detection. In fact, even if you answered no, you still really need to read the rest of this article, because you could be the next victim of critical leak disruption!

What is Leak Detection?

Leak detection technology comes in many different shapes and sizes, and is used to ascertain if residential or commercial pipelines have sprung a leak. Because leaks can be microscopic, regular maintenance and leak detection will ensure that a small leak doesn’t become a big problem.

South Florida homes are often built on concrete slabs, making it difficult to look for leaks underground. To navigate this problem, plumbers often use thermal imaging equipment. This equipment is particularly useful when detecting a leak in a residential pipe, as a qualified technician will be able to notice any changes to the surface temperature or active leakage of hot water.

Alternatively, licensed plumbers from Art Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Electric can use specialized microphones or even install electronic leak detectors to listen for leaks. Leaking or dripping water emits unique sound frequencies that our specialized equipment is able to pick up on, alerting our technicians to the location of the problem.

Why You Should Check for Leaks

There are many different reasons why people employ leak detection technology to maintain their pipes. In a perfect world, pipes would last indefinitely, but in reality, everyday wear and tear can damage your drains. Checking for microscopic leaks will prolong the lifespan of your plumbing, and prevent costly repair jobs.

Leak detection also prevents unnecessary health hazards. When pipes start to leak water, the area around the leak becomes damp. This can quickly lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which can have serious health effects on people living in the building, particularly anyone who struggles with asthma or respiratory issues.

Leaks can also impact your insurance coverage. Many insurers will question why a leak became such a big problem, particularly if homeowners don’t regularly maintain their pipes.

Types of Leaks

One of the most common misconceptions about leak detection is the idea that all plumbing leaks are visible. Unfortunately, this misconception often results in severe damage, as homeowners believe that if they can’t see or hear dripping water, there isn’t a problem.

Pipes are often found in walls, under concrete slabs and beneath bathroom fixtures, so you won’t always notice a leak until it’s caused serious damage. While it’s important to regularly maintain your pipes and check for tiny leaks, if you notice any of the following occur contact a licensed technician immediately.

• Increase in Water Bill
  If your water bill suddenly starts to skyrocket without a change in your water consumption, it’s very likely that you have a leak. Unexpected water hikes are one of the most telling side-effects of leaking pipes, so if you notice your water bill is higher than normal, it’s best to call Art Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Electric immediately.
  

• Water Stains
  Sometimes, pipes in ceilings and walls start to leak. When this happens, homeowners often start to notice evidence of brown spots or water leaks on drywall or flooring. This may be caused by a leaking plumbing fixture, such as a toilet or shower, and will require professional attention.
  

• Lifting Tiles or Floorboards
  If you notice your floorboards or tiles start to lift around the edges, there is likely a leak nearby. When water leaks onto the wooden subflooring beneath your tiles, it starts to rot and swell. This can cause floorboards and tiles to lift at the edges, as the rotting subflooring forces them upwards.
  

• Green Grass
  Leaking pipes don’t always cause property damage – in fact, a leaky pipe might appear positive to start off with. If you suddenly notice patches of very green grass (especially if you forgot to water your lawn last week) it’s possible that a pipe is leaking below your property.
  

Whether you have a visible, audible or unknown leak, at Art Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Electric we will use the most advanced technology to find – and fix – the problem. Don’t let a small leak become a big problem: call us today.