Water Leak Detection in Akron, OH

Water leaks are as frustrating as they are damaging, often because of how difficult they are to detect and how they can go unnoticed for long periods of time.  A water leak can technically happen inside, or underground anywhere between the city hookup and where the water enters your home.  The key to minimizing damage to both your home and your pocket, is early detection.  Here are 6 signs to be aware of when identifying a leak:

• Unusually High Water Bill
  There’s uncharacteristically high, then there’s “holy moly, there’s no way I used that much water”.  If your water bills are on the rise, you might have a water leak.
• Wet Spots on Ceiling, Floor or Walls
  Water leaks can make themselves known in the way of water marks.  If your ceiling, wall or floor surfaces are wet, warping, sagging or stained call a professional to take a look.
• Musty Odors
  Water that accumulates over a long period of time can leave your home smelling a bit funky.  Unfortunately, musty odors are often due to mold and mildew that can spread rather fast under ideal conditions.  It’s best to get these situations under control as soon as possible.
• Sound of Water Flowing
  If you hear water running, but have no reasonable explanation as to why…check your faucets, spigots, toilet valves, etc.  If everything is appears normal, take an hourly reading of your water meter. If the meter reading goes up and you didn’t use any water, there’s a problem lurking.
• Low Water Pressure
  While it doesn’t always signify a leak, low water pressure can be cause for concern. First identify whether the water pressure is low all the time or just intermittently.  Then check various faucets, showers and spigots to see if all of them are effected or just ones in a certain area of the home.  Collect your findings and have a discussion with a local plumber.
• Cracks in Walls
  While it may seem as though cracks and moisture have nothing to do with one another, they often do.  If you have an underground leak, causing the ground to shift and your home to settle in unexpected ways, that settling could cause cracks in your foundation and drywall.  No matter how small the crack is, it could signify big problems for you and your home.

7 Steps to Take if You Have a Leak

• Turn off the Water
  Locate your water meter and turn off the water to prevent any additional damage.
• Identify the Source of Leak
  Sometimes it is very apparent and other times not. The more you can investigate, the more efficient a plumber will be when they arrive.
• Call a Licensed Plumber
  Not all plumbers are created equal and water leaks are nothing to mess with. Get a licensed professional in to assess the problem and damage.
• Document Damage
  Before the cleanup begins, document the damage for insurance purposes.
• Call Your Insurance Company
  Make your insurance company aware of the damage as early in the process as possible so that they can help you through the process.
• Fix the Leak
  Once the problem is identified, the plumber will recommend a course of action. It’s best to proceed quickly but cautiously to ensure proper resolution.
• Hire Reinforcements
  Water damage can lead to mold, mildew, damaged drywall and flooring. Contact the proper professionals to make certain the clean-up is as thorough as possible, leaving behind no health hazards or unsightly reminders.

Mitigate potential water damage when you contact Jackson Comfort Services for leak detection & repair!