Signs of Plumbing Leaks that You Need to Know

Plumbing problems are never convenient. There is never a good time to need plumbing repairs – especially when you consider that plumbing leaks can lead to home damage, too. But inconvenient or not, plumbing repair needs are very common. Your pipes wear down over time and need repairs occasionally – especially if you live in an older home with older pipes. 

How can you tell if you have a plumbing leak?

• Hear running water when nothing’s on: if you hear pipes gurgling or water moving without using anything, it may indicate a hidden leak.
• Notice low or inconsistent water pressure: widespread low pressure suggests a main line leak, while pressure drops in just one area may point to a local leak.
• See your water meter change with no use: shut off all taps and appliances, wait about 30 minutes, and recheck the meter—any increase means water loss.
• Smell musty odors or find stains: moldy smells, mildew, or watermarks on walls, ceilings, or floors often signal an active leak that needs urgent attention.

Many homeowners would love to stay ahead of plumbing problems by identifying leaks before they can cause widespread damage. We can help you learn more about the early signs of plumbing problems. If you do find yourself in need of an Emergency Plumber in Athens, GA, give our team a call. We can help by fixing any plumbing problems and addressing any other concerns we notice during our service call. For more insights, check out how to avoid common plumbing issues.

Signs of Plumbing Leaks

When you know what to watch and listen for, you can stay ahead of leaks in your home. If you’re dealing with a leaky sink, learn more about why kitchen sinks commonly leak. If you have a leak, you might notice things like: 

• The sound of running water – It’s normal to hear water running through your pipes if you have a sink or appliance turned on. But if no one in your home is using water, then you shouldn’t hear any water running. When water is moving through your pipes without a source, that’s a sign that you have a leak. Try to identify where the sound of running water is coming from, and then look for signs of a leak. Even if you don’t see any signs, you should still give us a call to check your pipes. 
• Changes in water pressure – The water pressure throughout your home should be consistent. You should feel a strong stream of water coming from each sink and shower. If you lose water pressure across your entire home, you may have a leak somewhere at the main water line. If you lose water pressure in a single room, you may have a leak in one of the nearby pipes.
• Water meter changes – Your water tracks your home’s water use in real time. If you suspect that you have a leak, turn off all faucets and appliances in your home and then go outside to read the meter. Wait for around 30 minutes, and then check the reading again. The number should not change because you didn’t use any water. If the number increases, you probably have a leak. 
• Unusual smells or stains – If there is an area of your home that smells like mold or mildew, it may be caused by a leak. The area may smell musty, or the air may feel thick. You may notice dark spots on a wall, ceiling, or floor. Smelling mold and seeing watermarks means that a leak is already significant. Seek out emergency plumbing service right away so you can stop the leak before the damage gets worse. For more tips on maintenance, read our homeowner plumbing maintenance guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What are the main signs of a plumbing leak?
Answer: Look for unusual increases in your water bill, damp or discolored walls and ceilings, musty odors, warped floors, low water pressure, and sounds of running or hissing water when all fixtures are off.

Question: How can I detect hidden leaks behind walls or under the slab?
Answer: Listen for constant water flow or dripping when no water is on. Check for warm or damp patches on floors, cracks in walls, warped or bubbling paint, and unexplained mold or mildew growth.

Question: Why is monitoring my water bill effective for leak detection?
Answer: A sudden spike in water usage often indicates hidden leaks, since leaking pipes silently waste gallons of water—even a small leak can noticeably raise your bill.

Question: Can mold, mildew, or musty odors signal a leak?
Answer: Yes, leaks increase moisture, giving mold and mildew fertile ground. If you smell mustiness or spot mold in dry areas, it’s a strong sign water is leaking somewhere unseen.Question: Is low water pressure related to leaks?
Answer: Definitely. Leaks divert water away before it reaches your fixtures, causing a drop in flow. If water pressure decreases across the home, a leak may be the culprit.

Schedule an appointment with us now so we can help you relax again. At Snellville Heating, Air and Plumbing, Your Comfort Is OUR Business!