The plumbing system of every home features two primary components, namely the water supply portion and the drain-waste element. The water main represents the key pipeline for bringing publicly treated water into the home. From the water main, there are multiple branches of piles that send water to different parts of the house, including bathroom faucets, clothes washer, and dishwasher.
If something goes awry with any of the elements that comprise the water supply system, serious difficulties can arise. The quality of the water itself can be harmed by an intrusion of contaminants such as dirt. Leaks an emerge, resulting in costly utility bills, mold concerns, and flooding inside the home. As such, it is never a good idea to postpone repairs to the water lines or water main. As such, it is vital to remain vigilant about key signs of trouble.
Hallmarks Of Damaged Water Main Or Line
- Foul-Smelling, Rusty, Or Dirty Water
If there has been an underground water main break, the normally clean water supply can become tainted by dirt. When the water has a rusty tinge to it, this is a sign of serious pipe corrosion. Either way, the water may no longer be potable, and therefore prompt repairs are critical. - Abnormally High Water Costs
If you are not noticing any changes to your water supply, but have been receiving unusually high water bills, you may have a problem that requires repair work. If there is no reasonable explanation for the rising cost of your water, you probably have a leak in the system that has gone undetected. A professional plumber will be able to use specialized equipment to find the leak and make the needed repairs. - Standing Water On The Property
If you notice that there are soggy puddles in your yard or near your house, it may not just be a rain drainage problem. When these accumulations are present for extended periods, it is likely that you have an underground pipe leak. - Damp Ceilings, Walls, Or Flooring
When you begin to notie bubbling paint on the ceilings or the walls, it is almost certain that a water leak is to blame. If a leak develops in your home’s foundation, there may be damp patches on your flooring or basement walls. To stop the problem in the short term, use the main shutoff valve right away to cut the water flow and get in touch with a plumber. - Reduced Water Pressure
Unusually low water pressure in a particular fixture may well indicate a minor, isolated issue. However, if water pressure is a problem all over teh house, it is more probably that there is a water main or supply line leak somewhere in the house that needs fixing. - Sinkholes On The Property
It is not uncommon for the water main to run beneath sidewalks or the driveway to your home. When a water main develops an underground leak, the ground that lies under these areas of pavement can become unstable and potholes may emerge. - Water Sounds
There are times when leaks become significant enough that you can actually hear the sounds of running water, ongoing drips, or even a stream that simply will not stop. If you are not running a faucet or a water-using appliance and such sounds remain audible, you have cause to worry, and a plumber should be called.
Know When To Call For Help
It is not always simple to detect a water line or water main break. However, being aware of the warning signs of one can be the key to knowing when professional help is required. Never forget that water leaks pose more than just a risk to the structure of your house, they can also place your health in jeopardy. Because of this, if you suspect that an issue is present, get in touch with a plumber who can tell for certain if repairs are necessary.