If you’re a homeowner, you should know that plumbing leaks pose a significant threat to your property. However, when you think of leaks, you likely imagine something like a burst pipe or a damaged drain line. The good news is that those are typically infrequent occurrences. Smaller leaks, though, are far more common. Even though they seem like less of a concern than major leaks, they’re no less severe. Here are some of the consequences of ignoring small leaks and what you should do if you have one.
The Consequences of Ignoring a Small Leak
You may think that cleaning up after a small leak periodically is enough of a solution to put off repairs. However, while you’re delaying the inevitable, you’ll also be risking some unpleasant consequences.
Water Bill Spikes
One of the hardest things to judge when evaluating a leak is just how much water is escaping. Even a slow drip adds up to a considerable volume, usually faster than you think. The average small leak can waste up to 10,000 gallons of water over the course of a year. Even a faucet that drips 10 times a minute wastes a gallon of water daily. It’s enough for even the most minor leaks to impact your home’s water bills. Before you know it, you’ll get an unpleasant shock in the form of a high water bill. And you won’t get a pass just because the extra water use was inadvertent.
Mold and Mildew Growth
Another serious consequence of ignoring a small leak is that it may foster mold and mildew growth. Mold and mildew thrive in dark, damp environments. A persistent leak can create the perfect conditions for them both. Once your home develops a mold and mildew problem, it can affect the health of everyone in your home. Plus, mold and mildew remediation is often a costly and disruptive process.
Hidden Pipe Damage
A small leak can also be a sign of hidden pipe damage elsewhere. In other words, a small leak may warn you of a more significant plumbing problem you’re unaware of. Ignoring that warning risks your small problem turning into a much larger one.
Structural Damage
If your home is like most, it’s primarily wood-framed. Ignoring a small leak for too long risks damage to your home’s structure. Wooden beams can warp and weaken due to prolonged exposure to moisture. A persistent leak can even damage your home’s concrete foundation much faster than you may realize.
Pest Problems
Finally, ignoring a small leak can lead to pest problems in your home. Both rodents and insects need water to live, and damp environments attract them. Not only do pest infestations pose a health risk, but they may damage your home, too. Both carpenter ants and termites are on the list of moisture-loving insects. If they enter your home, your small leak will be the least of your problems.
What to Do When You Spot a Small Leak
You can avoid all the consequences above if you take prompt action when you spot a small leak. The first thing to do is halt the flow of water. If the leak is under a sink, toilet, or elsewhere with its own shutoff valve, turn it off to stop the leak. If you can’t find a shutoff valve near the leak, turn off your home’s main water shutoff valve. Even if it’s overkill, it’s the one sure way to stop any further water damage.
Next, examine the area around the leak to look for damage. If you’re unsure how long the leak existed before you discovered it, there may be more damage than expected. If the leak occurred near an appliance like a water heater, turn off its power before getting close enough to inspect.
Once you know the extent of the damage, call us for help. The more information you provide, the faster we can complete your repairs. And if you couldn’t halt the water flow or had to turn off your home’s water to do it, you’ll need an emergency plumber. We’re available 24/7 for such situations, so you don’t go without working plumbing any longer than necessary.
Local Plumbing Repair Experts
From small leaks to larger ones, Pipe Surgeon Plumbing is the place to turn for help in Lexington. Our owner is a master plumber with years of practical experience. Our local plumbing team is dedicated to helping you protect your home from water damage resulting from leaks. That’s why we provide 24/7 service and strive to respond promptly whenever you call. Also, we’re a recipient of the Angi Super Service Award, reflecting the quality of our work. So, if you have a plumbing leak in your Lexington home, or you need any other service like drain cleaning, contact Pipe Surgeon Plumbing today!
