You can fix water leaks around your home to conserve water, lower your utility bills, and prevent major plumbing issues. Every year, household water leaks waste a staggering 1 trillion gallons worldwide, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Common causes include worn-out toilet flappers, dripping faucets, and leaky shower heads. The good news? Most leaks are easy to detect and repair.
How to Tell If You Have a Leak
Not all leaks are obvious. Here’s how to identify hidden leaks:
- Monitor Water Usage: Check your water bill during winter months. If your household uses more than 12,000 gallons per month, leaks may be present.
- Check the Water Meter: Turn off all water usage for two hours. If the meter reading changes, you likely have a leak.
- Inspect for Visible Signs: Look for dripping faucets, water stains, or damp areas around fixtures and walls.
Common Sources of Water Leaks and How to Fix Them
1. Worn Toilet Flapper
A common cause of toilet leaks is a worn or degraded flapper. Over time, mineral buildup can cause the rubber to break down. Replacing the flapper is a simple fix:
- Turn off the water supply to the toilet.
- Remove the old flapper and bring it to a hardware store to find an exact match.
- Install the new flapper and test for leaks.
2. Dripping Shower Heads
If your shower head drips even when the water is off, it could be due to a loose connection or a worn washer. Try these steps:
- Ensure the connection between the shower head and pipe stem is tight.
- If the drip persists, apply Teflon tape around the threads to create a better seal.
- For more severe issues, contact a licensed plumber for assistance.
3. Leaky Faucets
Dripping faucets are often caused by a worn-out washer or cartridge. Fixing this involves:
- Turning off the water supply to the faucet.
- Disassembling the faucet to identify the faulty component.
- Replacing the washer or cartridge with a new one from a hardware store.
Why Fixing Leaks Matters
Ignoring leaks can lead to costly water bills, structural damage, and mold growth. By addressing leaks promptly, you can save money, protect your home, and conserve water—a win for both your wallet and the environment.
Why Choose ABC Plumbing, Sewer, Heating, Cooling and Electric?
At ABC Plumbing, Sewer, Heating, Cooling and Electric, we specialize in identifying and repairing water leaks to ensure your home stays safe and efficient. Serving Chicagoland and Tampa Bay, our licensed plumbers provide fast, reliable service to tackle even the most challenging leaks.
Find Your Nearest Location and Contact Us Today!
Concerned about water leaks in your home? Scroll down to find the ABC Plumbing, Sewer, Heating, Cooling and Electric location closest to you in Chicagoland or Tampa Bay, and call us today. Let us help you conserve water and protect your home from costly damage!
