The arrival of spring in central New Jersey brings an increase in outdoor activities that drive up water usage. Whether you're filling the pool, washing the cars, or watering the garden, now is a great time to check for hidden sources of water leaks.
Unseen leaks can not only waste water; they're also responsible for driving up your utility bill. Here are three great tips for home owners from American Leak Detection. They'll help you spot – and correct – any potential plumbing issues before they get out of hand:
Your easiest first step is to check the indicator on your water meter. Is it moving, even when you know there's been no water usage indoors? Look carefully at the hose bibs everywhere in your yard – you want to be sure that the flow of water to the hose is shutting off completely when the hose isn't in use. If the connections are tight, and the indicator on your meter is still moving, it's possible that you've got a pressurized leak underground (somewhere between the meter and your home).
Another possibility is a slab leak, or a leak in your irrigation system. Check the entire foundation of your house for cracks, uneven growth of vegetation, or earth shifts. Then, walk your yard looking for spongy (or even wet) areas. If your inspection doesn’t turn up an obvious leak source, you can use electronic leak-detection technology to locate – and fix – the leak at its source.
If your gas bill spikes suddenly, and there’s no smell indicating a possible gas leak, you should check your water heater. You may have a faulty thermostat. It's also possible that, if your water heater seems to be running constantly, you may have a leak in the hot water line from the heater.
Have you noticed that your dog or cat has found (not created!) warm spots on your floor, and that they've taken to sleeping there? These warm spots can also be a signal that there's a pressurized leak under your home.
Do you have a swimming pool in your yard? Look for these signs: If the water level in the pool drops by one-eighth of an inch or more in a 24-hour period; if algae growth begins pretty quickly after a chemical treatment, or if the pool’s automatic filler is running continuously, chances are the pool is leaking. Check for loose or missing tiles, cracks in the deck, cracks and gaps in the pool shell, and standing water, soggy spots, or uneven grass growth around the pool.
A few small and simple checks will ensure that your home is free of small, and often invisible, water-related problems. Take steps now to make sure your property is free of water leaks, and enjoy a hassle- and worry-free summer!
We are The Marchany Team, and we KNOW central New Jersey. We're right where you are, whether you're in South Brunswick or Monroe (Middlesex County). If you're looking for a terrific new home in Mercer County, we're prepared to search for your place in the sun in Princeton Junction, East Windsor, West Windsor, and Robbinsville. And if you're ready to put your Franklin Park or Hillsborough (Somerset County) home on the market, we're prepared to find the buyers who are looking for your home. Call The Marchany Team today at (732) 997-0019, and don't forget to “Like” us on Facebook! We are dedicated to helping you in every way possible.
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