Every home’s plumbing system consists of two primary components: the water supply portion and the drain-waste portion. The water main is the primary conduit for delivering publicly treated water to homes. There are multiple branches of pipes leading from the water main to various parts of the house, including the bathroom faucets, clothes washer, and dishwasher.
Serious problems can arise if any of the components of the water distribution system malfunction. The introduction of contaminants such as dirt can degrade the quality of the water. Leaks may occur, leading to expensive utility bills, mold concerns, and flooding within the home. Therefore, it is never advisable to delay repairs to the water lines or water main. As a result, it is essential to be vigilant for key warning signs of trouble.
Hallmarks Of Damaged Water Main Or Line
1. Water That Is Malodorous, Rusty, Or Dirty
If an underground water main has ruptured, the normally clean water supply can become contaminated with dirt. The presence of a rusty hue in the water indicates severe pipe corrosion. In either case, the water may no longer be potable, necessitating immediate repairs.
2. Unusually High Water Prices
If there have been no noticeable changes to your water supply, but your water bills have been unusually high, you may have a problem that requires repair. If there is no logical explanation for the rising cost of your water, there is likely an undetected leak in the system. A professional plumber will be able to locate the leak and make the necessary repairs using specialized equipment.
3. Water Standing On The Property
If you observe stagnant puddles in your yard or around your home, it may not be a simple drainage issue. When these accumulations persist for an extended period of time, it is likely that there is a leak in an underground pipe.
4. Damp Ceilings, Walls, Or Flooring
When you begin to observe bubbling paint on the ceilings or walls, a water leak is almost certainly to blame. If a leak develops in the foundation of your home, there may be damp spots on the flooring or basement walls. Use the main water shutoff valve as soon as possible to stop the water flow and contact a plumber to resolve the issue immediately.
5. Lowering Water Pressure
A fixture’s unusually low water pressure could indicate a minor, isolated problem. However, if water pressure is an issue throughout the entire house, it is more likely that a water main or supply line leak needs to be repaired.
7. Sinkholes On The Land
It is not uncommon for the water main to run beneath your home’s sidewalks or driveway. When a water main develops a subterranean leak, the ground beneath these paved areas may become unstable and potholes may appear.
7. Water Sounds
There are times when leaks become significant enough to be audible as running water, drips, or even a constant stream. If such sounds are still audible despite the absence of a running faucet or water-using appliance, a plumber should be called.
Know When To Call For Assistance
It is not always straightforward to detect a broken water line or water main. However, recognizing the warning signs of one can be the key to determining when professional assistance is necessary. Never forget that water leaks pose a threat to your health in addition to the structural integrity of your home. Consequently, if you suspect a problem, you should contact a plumber who can confirm whether or not repairs are required.