If you own a home, then chances are you've already experienced a water leak or two. To help you stop drips before they happen, we've put together a list of the five most common water wasters in your home.
1. Kitchen and Bathroom Faucets
Faucets are arguably the most common place for water leaks to happen. While that steady drip, drip, drip might seem like a simple annoyance, taken together those droplets could represent a significant increase in your water bill. Excess water can also damage sinks and bathtubs by causing rust, mold and premature decay to develop.
2. Shower Hose
High-traffic areas in the home such as showers are often subject to wear and tear. If you have a flexible shower hose rather than a showerhead, the hose can corrode and begin to leak over time. To fix a shower hose leak, simply ask your plumber to install a new hose.
3. Toilet Flapper Valve
Toilets are common offenders when it comes to water leaks. Plumbing experts have estimated that 20% to 35% of America's household toilets are leaking water. Homeowners can diagnose toilet leaks themselves, though they'll still likely need a plumber to perform any repairs.
To confirm a leak, take off the top of the toilet tank and listen for the sounds of water hissing. If you hear hissing, add a few drops of food coloring to the water in the tank (not the toilet bowl). After 20 to 30 minutes, any coloring in the toilet bowl means that a flapper valve leak is likely present.
4. Hot Water Tank
If your hot water tank begins to leak, act quickly. A simple leak could soon become a ruptured tank without a plumber's proper inspection. To prevent water leaks, proper maintenance of your hot water tank is key. Checking the pressure valve regularly and "flushing" the tank each year can help sustain a tank's healthy lifespan. Ask your plumber for other ways to maintain your hot water tank.
5. Supply Line
Unfortunately, water leaks don't always happen in the home. If you notice excess water in the meter box or puddles in your yard, your supply line could be leaking water. Leaks are usually the responsibility of local city authorities; however, if the problem occurs between your meter and home, then it's up to you to call a plumber.
Suspect a water leak in your home? For answers to your questions, contact The Pink Plumber today online or by calling 404-222-7465. With over 50 years of combined experience, our expert plumbers provide quick and efficient service 24/7. We're also committed to our communities: The Pink Plumber proudly supports Breast Cancer Research, donating $160,000 to the cause.
