Water leaks are often the last thing on homeowners’ minds until they notice the telltale signs. While some leaks may seem trivial, such as a leaky toilet or faucet, others can cause significant damage to the structure of your home. Broken pipes commonly cause water leaks, often evidenced by water spots on walls or ceilings or a sudden spike in water bills. Although it is impossible to avoid all water leaks completely, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk and mitigate potential disasters.
Being Proactive in Preventing Water Leaks
It is essential to recognize that everything in our homes, including pipes and fixtures, will eventually wear out. The pipes in a typical home have a life expectancy of 40 to 60 years, while water heaters have an expected lifespan of 10 to 15 years. Tankless water heaters have a slightly longer lifespan of around 20 years. Toilets require regular maintenance and may need parts replaced every few years, while faucets typically last 10 to 12 years before needing attention. Showerheads also deteriorate over time and may begin to leak. Additionally, a shifting foundation can lead to slab leaks. Therefore, caring for water leaks is integral to maintaining any home, particularly older ones.
Water Leak Statistics
The statistics surrounding water leaks highlight these issues’ prevalence and potential consequences. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average household leaks can result in nearly 10,000 gallons of wasted water annually. Moreover, 10% of households have water leaks that waste approximately 90 gallons of water per day. The alarming figures indicate that the problem lies in detecting these leaks before they cause substantial damage.
Water-Related Emergency Statistics
Water-related emergencies at home are more common than most people realize, with over 14,000 incidents occurring daily in the United States. The cost of water damage can be staggering, with the typical claim amounting to $11,098. Even a minor leak can result in a 10% increase in a household’s water bill, and collectively, water damage costs homeowners up to $20 billion annually in the United States alone. The scale of the problem further emphasizes the severity of the fact that one trillion gallons of water are lost each year due to leaks, enough to meet the annual needs of 11 million households.
Major Cause of Water Leaks
One major cause of leaks is high water pressure, which places undue stress on pipes and appliances. If you live in a home older than 40 years and have already experienced a water leak, it is crucial to have a licensed plumbing contractor inspect your pipes. Check your water pressure and ensure it falls between 40 and 60 pounds per square inch (PSI). Pressure exceeding 80 PSI can cause damage to pipes and appliances. A water pressure gauge, which can be purchased for a modest price, allows you to monitor your water pressure by attaching it to your outdoor spigot. If you notice an unusually high water bill or a sudden spike, it clearly indicates that a water leak may be present.
Common Causes of Water Leaks
Dripping faucets, leaky showerheads, worn toilet flappers, and leaking outdoor spigots and irrigation valves are among the most common leaks found in homes. While homeowners may perceive checking for leaks as daunting, it remains crucial in preventing potential disasters. You do not have to be a professional to perform a leak check. It is a task that any homeowner can undertake.
15 Minutes Now Can Save You Money
Checking for leaks before they turn into disasters requires a small time investment. Taking just 15 minutes a month, you can ensure the ongoing maintenance of your home. Familiarizing yourself with your water meter is the first step. Most water meters are near the street or at the bottom of the driveway, covered by a lid that can be removed with a heavy-duty screwdriver. After removing the lid, you should spray bug killer to eliminate spiders and wipe off the “flow rate indicator” for a clear view.
First, Check for Water Leak
The water meter’s dials resemble the odometer in a car, with some meters featuring a spinning wheel and others a spinning triangle. These are known as “leak indicators.” When water runs, the leak indicator will spin, causing the meter numbers to increase. Even minor leaks, such as those from toilets, faucets, or spigots, will cause the leak indicator to spin.
With the water meter familiarized, you can proceed to check for leaks. Start by turning off all water outlets in your home, including the washer and dishwasher. Then, remove the lid from the water meter and observe the small spinning dial. Again, all water needs to be turned off inside the house. If the dial spins, it indicates a water leak within your home. However, the process continues.
Do I Have a Gate Valve?
Locate the on and off irrigation valve, typically featuring a ball valve lever handle. In older homes, a gate valve may turn right and left to open and close. Turn off your irrigation system using this valve. If the leak indicator stops spinning after shutting off the irrigation, the leak is likely related to the irrigation system. Conversely, if the reading continues, the leak is within your home.
What About A Smart Solution?
While this method won’t prevent a leak from occurring, it is an effective way to identify leaks before they escalate into disasters. Homeowners can stay on top of their home maintenance by dedicating 15 minutes monthly to this routine. This practice is particularly crucial for older homes, although even newer homes are not exempt from potential water leaks.
In addition to manual leak detection, advancements in residential plumbing technologies have introduced smart leak detectors. These devices connect to your incoming water supply and provide real-time alerts through smartphone apps when a leak occurs. Some devices even allow you to shut off the water supply using your phone remotely. Whether it’s a minor toilet leak or a burst pipe, these modern leak detection technologies offer a convenient and proactive approach to leak prevention.
Needed Practices for Water Leak Checks
Although completely avoiding water leaks may be impossible, homeowners can take proactive measures to minimize the risk and prevent disasters. Regular inspections, monitoring water pressure, and using modern leak detection technologies are effective strategies to identify and address leaks promptly. By adopting these practices, homeowners can protect their properties from water damage, reduce wasted water, and save significant amounts of money in the long run.
The Best Solution for Water Leak Checks
In conclusion, while completely avoiding water leaks may be challenging, homeowners can take proactive steps to minimize the risk and prevent potential disasters. Regular maintenance and monitoring of water pressure. , and utilizing modern leak detection technologies is essential for identifying and addressing leaks before they escalate. However, should you require professional assistance with plumbing services, you should contact trusted experts such as Murrieta Plumbing. With their expertise and experience, they can provide reliable solutions and ensure the integrity of your plumbing system. Remember, a proactive approach to plumbing maintenance is key to safeguarding your home and avoiding water leak disasters.
