How to Spot a Slab Leak: A Homeowner’s Quick Checklist

Slab leaks can cause significant water damage and costly repairs if left unchecked. These leaks occur when water pipelines beneath your home’s foundation become cracked or damaged, allowing water to seep through. But aside from the obvious signs like water pooling on your floors, how can you tell if this is something you need to worry about? As the go-to plumber in Catalina Foothills, AZ, RAM Plumbing shares things you need to be on the lookout for when it comes to potential slab leaks.

Unexplained Increase in Water Bills

A sudden spike in your water bill (especially if you haven’t been using more water than usual) could mean a hidden leak somewhere in your plumbing system. And if you can’t find any visible signs of leaking pipes within or outside your home, then it’s likely that the problem lies within your foundation. It’s always a good idea to investigate further and let technicians from your local plumbing company carry out an inspection to determine where the source of the leak is coming from.

Warm Spots on Floors

If you notice warm spots on your floors, such as tiles or carpet feeling unusually warm to the touch, don’t ignore them. Hot water lines run beneath your foundation, and if one of those pipes is leaking, the water can warm up the concrete slab above it. Pay particular attention to areas near the bathrooms, kitchen, and laundry room, and don’t hesitate to call professional plumbing services to assess the situation.

Sound of Running Water

Hearing running water when all faucets and appliances are turned off is a red flag for slab leaks. It may sound like a faint hissing or dripping noise, but it’s always worth checking out. If you do hear something, turn off the main water supply and call a plumber right away. They have access to specialized equipment that can help pinpoint the exact location of the leak without causing unnecessary damage to your property.

Cracks in Walls or Floors

Slab leaks can cause shifts in your home’s foundation, leading to cracks in walls and floors. These may be small at first, but they can quickly become larger if plumbing repairs are not carried out promptly. If you notice any new or widening cracks, especially in areas near water pipes, it’s important to address them immediately.

Prevent emergency plumbing situations and more expensive repairs by staying observant of what’s going on in and around your home. If issues arise, however, RAM Plumbing is always only a call away, ready to deliver the best solution for your plumbing needs. Part of our comprehensive services is leak detection, where we use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to locate and repair any leaks efficiently. Call us today or fill out our online form to book an appointment.