Although having leaky pipes is a common thing, it doesn’t mean that you have to be happy about it. Depending on the severity of the leak, it can cause water damage to your home and to your things inside. Nothing is quite as frustrating as having to go through the long process of air-drying a bunch of stuff that can’t be thrown in the dryer for a quick fix. You may go months with a small leak in your pipes causing all sorts of damage and never even know it.

To avoid that, here are 5 reasons to suspect you have leaky pipes:

Mold and Mildew

Bacteria is constantly floating around in the air and when you add moisture and warm air to the mix, you get mold or mildew. If you find either mold or mildew in your home, it is the perfect reason to suspect that you have a leaky pipe somewhere. You’ll smell that musty odor that comes with mold and mildew until you find and fix that leaky pipe. Best to get on it sooner rather than later to get rid of that smell.

High Water Bill

Every month, you are very aware of what you pay for utilities. When that water bill rapidly increases for no apparent reason, suspect a leaky pipe. If you aren’t increasing your water use, but your bill reflects that you are, leaky pipe. Fixing a leaky pipe can save you almost 10 percent on your water bill.

Stains Around Water Heater

If you rely on a water heater to keep your home warm, you know how much water flows through there to get to your sinks, showers, and tubs. Water heaters are designed to withstand a lot of water, but that doesn’t mean they can’t get leaks. If you see water stains around your water heater, it’s time to call the plumber because you have a leak. Call soon to minimize water damage.

Cabinetry Damage

Your cabinets under the sinks around your home houses a lot of stuff. It is the main storage place for cleaning supplies and every one does it. Unfortunately, all that stuff shoved under the sink can lead to leaky pipes. If you notice that your cabinets begin to warp or there is a smell every time you open the cabinets, suspect a leak.

Cracked Foundation

Cracked or an uneven foundation is a major sign that you have a leaky pipe. Leaky pipes underneath your home cause the soil around it to become displaced, thus making your foundation uneven. To fill the gaps in the soil, your foundation will shift which ultimately leads to it cracking.

If you suspect you have leaky pipes, call York Plumbing and Drains today at (781) 521-8164.