Your plumbing system is essential to comfort, safety and well-being. As one of the most heavily used systems in your home, it is important to recognize the signs that your water line needs to be repaired or replaced. This list of signs to look out for will provide you with the opportunity to arrange for prompt and thorough repairs performed by experienced and on-time plumbers.
Here are 5 signs that you need water line repair or replacement:
Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure is one of the top signs that your water line needs to either be repaired or replaced. If the water pressure seems low, check the fixture first. When all fixtures display low pressure, it is likely the water line. A water pipe may become obstructed, cracked or offset, causing some of the water to leak out before it reaches your home. Replacement should be considered for water lines that are more than 50 years old.
Standing Water
If a walk through your yard results in finding a pool of standing water, this suggests that the water line has cracked. The water leaks out of the pipe and saturates the soil. When the soil cannot hold any more water, a large, muddy puddle will develop. A puddle may also develop on a driveway or sidewalk that is situated above or next to a damaged water line. This problem needs prompt repairs because standing water could damage your home’s foundation.
Soggy Grass
Soggy grass is another sign that your water line requires repairs. A break in the water line between the street and your house can occur under the soil. As the water escapes from the pipe, the ground gets wet. You may notice that an area of grass is growing more quickly or is greener than the grass 10 to 20 feet away. This is the result of a slow leak from the water pipe.
Discolored Water
Damaged water pipes allow small particles of soil and minerals to mix into your water. If you turn on your faucets and see that the water is discolored, it could be the result of a cracked or damage water line. Yellow, orange and brown are the most common colors that water will turn when the pipe is damaged. Replacing the water line should restore the water to its expected transparency. You might also notice a metallic or earthy smell to the discolored water. This is a result of the soil and mineral infiltration.
Increased Water Bills
A break in the water line may cause your water bills to suddenly climb. Even a slow leak can waste dozens to hundreds of gallons of water every day, causing the bill to soar. If you are only billed monthly or every three months, you may not notice the change right away. You can check for leaks by noting the numbers on your water meter before leaving home for the day. Make sure that no appliances such as dishwashers are in use. If the numbers have changed when you return home, this suggests a water line leak.
