A water leak in your home can quickly go from a minor nuisance to a major plumbing emergency. From a slow drip behind the walls to a burst pipe flooding your basement, unchecked leaking water can cause costly damage and hazardous conditions fast.
Common consequences of a water leak include:
● Damaged flooring
● Destroyed furniture or cabinets
● Warped walls and ceilings
● Mold growth and the need for mold remediation
● Long-term structural issues
From small leaks caused by corrosion or loose connections to major failures in your main water line, it’s essential to act fast and prevent further damage. Even everyday appliances, such as dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters, can develop leaks that escalate quickly. It’s important to STOP the leak as soon as possible.
Recognizing the early warning signs of a water leak can help you take action before the damage becomes extensive.
Common Signs You Might Have a Leak
Some leaks are obvious. Others are hidden behind walls or under floors, quietly causing damage until it’s too late. Watch for these signs:
● Sudden spike in your water bill without increased usage
● Sounds of running or dripping water when no fixtures are in use
● Low water pressure, even when no other water sources are running
● Water stains, warped floors, or bubbling paint
● Dampness around sinks, appliances, or toilets
● Water meter continues to run, even with everything shut off
These warning signs may indicate a plumbing issue, such as a hidden leaky pipe, appliance failure, or a broken underground line. If you’re seeing these signs but aren’t sure where the water is coming from, the next step is to identify the source of the leak.
How to Find the Source of a Leak
Finding the source of a leak can be challenging, especially if it’s behind walls or underground. Discoloration, wet spots, or puddles can help point you toward the source of the leak. A musty or mildew smell is often an early warning sign of hidden leaks. In addition, A-1 Sewer & Septic Services offers systems for leak detection that can provide notifications on your phone if there is even a minor leak. Early alerts lead to fast leak repair and minimize water damage, preventing high water bills and ultimately helping you save money!
Bathroom:
● Check for moisture under the sink. Even small drips from supply lines or drain pipes can cause mold growth and cabinet damage over time.
● Splash water on closed shower doors and inspect for leaks. This will help you spot worn seals or gaps where water can escape and cause damage to the flooring.
● Fill the bathtub and monitor the water level. A drop in water level may indicate a crack in the tub or a leak in the drain assembly.
● Inspect for toilet leaks. Look for pooled water or damp flooring at the base, check the supply line and shut-off valve for drips, and listen for running water when it’s not in use. For silent leaks, add a few drops of food coloring to the tank. If the bowl water changes color within 15–30 minutes, the flapper or other tank components may need repair.
● Look for discoloration or water stains on the ceiling below a bathroom. Stains often signal hidden plumbing leaks or failed waterproofing in the floor above.
Kitchen:
● Empty the cabinet under your sink and feel for moisture. Small leaks from supply lines or drain pipes can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and pest problems.
● Pour a small amount of water around the sink rim to check for seal failure. Water that seeps beneath the countertop can cause swelling, warping, and the growth of hidden mold.
● Inspect water supply lines for your dishwasher and refrigerator. Cracked hoses or loose connections can leak slowly over time, leading to costly floor and cabinet damage.
Other Areas:
● Assess crawl spaces and basements for pooling water or corroded pipes. Early detection of leaks in these areas can prevent structural damage and costly repairs.
● Evaluate your water heater, especially if it’s more than 8 years old. Look for rust, puddles, or corrosion, which could indicate a failing tank that may burst.
● Check exterior hose bibs and irrigation system connections for leaks. Drips or damp spots outside can waste water and damage your foundation.
● Examine the area under or around your washing machine. Loose hoses, cracked connections, or an unbalanced machine can cause leaks and water damage.
Don’t forget: a damp odor or mildew smell can often indicate hidden water leaks, even if you don’t see visible water. For added peace of mind, consider installing a smart leak detection system that sends alerts directly to your phone at the first sign of trouble.
Now that you know where to look, let’s explore what might be causing the leak in the first place.
Why Pipes Leak: 7 Common Causes
Plumbing systems are constantly under pressure and can degrade over time. These are some of the most common reasons pipes leak:
1. Clogged Pipes: Blockages increase pressure, which can cause pipes to crack or burst.
2. Worn-Out Joints: Pipe connections naturally deteriorate over time and may begin to leak.
3. Tree Roots: Underground lines can be punctured or blocked by invasive roots.
4. Temperature Changes: Expansion and contraction from freeze/thaw cycles weaken pipe material.
5. High Water Pressure: Excessive pressure can damage faucets, seals, and valves.
6. Aging Water Heaters: Older units often develop rust and leak near the bottom or fittings.
7. Clogged Appliance Drains: Backups from washing machines or dishwashers can overflow or leak, causing damage.
Knowing what causes leaks can help you take preventive measures before they turn into costly repairs. What should you do right away if you’ve already discovered a leak? Let’s walk through the steps to minimize damage.
What to Do When You Discover a Water Leak
Once you discover a water leak, you want to respond correctly and promptly to minimize damage and save yourself time and money. If water is near electrical outlets or appliances, prioritize safety and turn off power at the breaker before handling cleanup. Follow these steps immediately to prevent significant damage:
1. Shut off the water supply to the leaking fixture. If you can’t isolate the source, shut off the main water supply to your home. Are you unsure of the location of the shut-off valves on your property? In an emergency, every second matters. Make sure you know the location of shut-off valves before disaster strikes. Knowing the locations ahead of time gives you the power to stop leaks quickly and protect your home.
2. Mop or soak up water using towels to stop further spreading and to prevent further damage from occurring.
3. Move wet items to a dry area and allow them to dry off to prevent mold growth.
4. Lift furniture using blocks or other items to raise the furniture above the wet floor.
5. Turn off the electricity at the breaker if water has reached outlets or wiring. Contact an experienced electrician.
6. Start drying out the affected area using fans and dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels.
7. Catch ceiling leaks in buckets and monitor for sagging or bowing. Be cautious of collapse risks if you observe signs of “bowing” in the ceiling.
8. Call a plumber. A-1 Sewer & Septic Service offers fast, emergency plumbing repair services throughout Kansas City and the surrounding areas.
You can’t always avoid emergencies, but there are a few key things you can do to help prevent water leaks in the future.
Preventing Future Water Leaks
Even a small, slow leak can waste gallons of water, inflate your utility bills, and lead to potential damage. Many water leaks can be prevented with proper maintenance. Here are steps you can take to reduce your risk:
● Schedule routine plumbing inspections.
● Install leak detectors that send alerts to your phone.
● Wrap exposed pipes during cold weather to prevent freezing.
● Fix dripping faucets and slow drains before they become bigger issues.
● Monitor your monthly water bill and meter reading for unexplained changes.
These proactive steps can save you thousands in repairs and reduce water waste in the process. If a leak does occur, having a trusted plumber on call can make all the difference.
Found a Leak? Call a Professional Plumber
Don’t wait for small leaks to turn into plumbing disasters. At A-1 Sewer & Septic Service, we’ve been helping Kansas City homeowners handle water leaks, plumbing issues, and drain problems for decades.
Our expert plumbers are available for emergency repairs and routine maintenance. Whether it’s a hidden pipe leak, burst water line, or leaking water heater, we’re ready to help fast.
Call today or visit our website to schedule a service call. We proudly serve the greater Kansas City metro area and offer transparent pricing for all our plumbing services. See why A-1 is Kansas City’s number 1 choice!