A lot of leaks are easy to spot. It’s hard to ignore spraying water under a sink or a pool of water around your toilet. But there are also a lot of leaks that aren’t easy to spot – like slab leaks. Because they’re hidden behind a layer of concrete, it may be hard to notice at first. To avoid the slab leak injuring your foundation or damaging your home, it’s important to pay attention to any warning signs – no matter how big or small they may seem. Here are 5 tell-tale signs you have a slab leak.

1. Water Bill Increase

Most of the time, your water bill stays pretty consistent. However, if you notice there’s an unexplained spike in your water bill, then this could be cause for concern. A slab leak means that you have water running in your home all day long, 24 hours a day. It would be no wonder why you’d notice a water bill increase if your water is constantly running. It’s important to note that you may find your water bill has increased for reasons other than a slab leak, but it doesn’t hurt to have it checked out by a professional plumber to be sure.

2. Decreased Water Pressure

Having low water pressure can be extremely frustrating, and make simple tasks, like showering and washing dishes, much longer to complete. While there are many reasons you may be experiencing decreased water pressure, slab leaks is one of the most common ones. One way to test this theory is to turn off all your fixtures and look at your water meter. If your water meter still runs, then you may have a slab leak on your hands.

3. Mold or Mildew Smells

Mold thrives in moist, humid and dark environments. That being said, if you have water leaking underneath your home, then it’s not uncommon for moisture to get trapped under your floors. If not addressed, this could cause mold and mildew to grow. Sometimes, mold can go undetected for months but other times, the musty smell permeates throughout the home that it becomes hard to ignore. Mold can not only be dangerous to your health, but it could also cause extensive damage to your home and belongings.

4. Damp or Warped Floors

Leaks that are severe enough can cause damage to the flooring. You may find that your floors appear damp or warped. If you have carpet, be mindful of unexplained damp areas. On the other hand, if you have hardwood or laminate flooring, be aware of any warped appearance. These can be true tell-tale signs of a slab leak.

5. Water Seeping Under or Around Your Foundation

If you notice water seeping under or around your foundation, then it could mean you have a slab leak. Especially if it’s a dry day and there’s no water source nearby (such as a hose), then you shouldn’t notice any water around your foundation.

Schedule Professional Slab Leak Repair Services With Leak Finders Today In Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas!

For over 20 years, Leak Finders in Richmond, VA has been providing professional, quality slab leak repair services people can count on. Contact us to schedule your appointment today. We can be reached at (804) 867-2114 or online here.

Why Does My Toilet Keep Clogging?

If you’re dealing with recurrent toilet problems, you may be desperate for a solution at this time. Knowing the true cause can get you one step closer to solving the issue. There are many reasons your toilet might be clogging. Let’s dig in to what those are!

1. Old Age

Your toilet might just be old and not able to keep up! If you have an older, low flow model, it undoubtedly lacks the right pressure needed to clear material through the drain. This can definitely lead to repeated clogs. If you have an older toilet, it might be time to look into replacing it with a newer model.

2. Using Too Much Toilet Paper

Using too much toilet paper can cause the toilet to clog. While your toilet is can handle toilet paper, too much of it isn’t a good thing.  If you or someone in your home is using a lot of toilet paper in a single flush, it’s time to stop that habit. If your clog is a result of too much toilet paper being used, this will without a doubt, fix that problem.

3. Non-Flushable Items Are Being Flushed

To avoid frequent clogs, it’s important to know what is flushable and what is not flushable. To put it simply, waste and toilet paper should be the only things you’re flushing down the toilet. In fact, even “flushable” wipes aren’t the best for your plumbing system. Other non-flushable items like paper towels, cotton balls, feminine products, and hair also don’t belong in the toilet.

4. A Clog In The Sewer Line

Have you plunged your toilet repeatedly only to find that your toilet continues to clog, no matter what you do? You may have a clog deeper down that you cannot see – like in your sewer line. It’s possible the drain is obstructed further down, making it impossible for material to move through it. A lot of times, this is a problem that needs professional assistance.

5. Clogs In The Toilet Trap

Last but not least, you may have a clog in the toilet trap. A common toilet trap that is installed is called an S trap. This built-in trap is what keeps the bowl partially filled. It also helps prevent sewer gases from coming out of your septic system. However, when debris gets trapped and clogged inside, it can cause a back up. Using too much toilet paper, or flushing non-flushable items can cause this problem.

Schedule Professional Plumbing Services With Leak Finders Today In Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas!

For over 20 years, Leak Finders in Richmond, VA has been providing professional, quality plumbing services people can count on. Contact us to schedule your appointment today. We can be reached at (804) 867-2114 or online here.

Sweet Summertime: 7 Plumbing Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

Summer is THE time you’re likely spending more time outside, playing activities, visiting with friends and family, and hosting backyard BBQ’s. However, summer is also THE time homeowners see a lot more plumbing problems surface. To avoid a plumbing nightmare this summer, there are 7 tips you should know.

1. Prevent Toilets From Clogging

With the increased foot traffic through your home this summer, it’s important to remind guests and children of proper bathroom etiquette. Make sure everyone knows what is safe to flush and what is not safe to flush to prevent clogs. Anything but waste and toilet paper does not belong in the toilet. It’s also important to remind children to not use too much toilet paper, as this can also lead to clogs.

2. Save Water

It can be tough to save water in the summertime. After all, you’re likely drinking more of it, using it to water your lawn or to fill up a swimming pool, or to simply cool down. However, try to be more conscious of your water usage where you can. This could mean you take shorter showers or turn off the faucet when brushing your teeth. Also consider not running the dishwasher until it is fully loaded, and limiting your loads in the washing machine. These simple tasks can make a world of difference when it comes to saving water this summer.

3. Be Kind To Your Garbage Disposal

Is your home the hangout spot for neighborhood kids during the summer? Maybe you’re the one that’s hosting the next big cookout or BBQ. If you’re having guests over for food, remind them that your garbage disposal is not the place for trash! Items like bones, fruit pits, and grease from grilling should never go down your drain as this could lead to clogs and blockages. Instead, have a trash can easily accessible so people can throw their trash away in the garbage vs. your garbage disposal.

4. Test Your Sump Pump

In places like Virginia, we are no strangers to summer storms! While thunderstorms occur throughout the year, summer tends to be the season we see the most of it. That being said, it is the best time to test your sump pump. Making sure it is working properly can help you avoid a messy flood at your home’s foundation in the event of a huge thunderstorm. If you live in an area that is prone to summer storms, make sure to test your sump pump on a dry day. 

5. Check For Leaks

You will be able to save money on your water bills and prevent potentially significant water damage by catching leaks early on. Now is the best time to inspect your faucets, pipes, showerheads, and outdoor spigots for any signs of leaks. If you notice any leaks, call your local plumber to address them before the problem worsens.

6. Clear Out Your Drains

During the winter, your outdoor drains and downspouts likely took a hit! Make sure you clear them out this summer so they’re free of leaves and dirt. If you don’t clear your drains, they could clog up and cause damage to your drains, ultimately leading to cracks and leaks. In addition to clearing out your outdoor drains, pay attention to your indoor drains as well. For example, your bathtub and shower drains could see clogs this summer if you’re taking trips to the beach. Pebbles, sand and dirt can clog up your drains if you’re not careful. Remember to wash off before entering your shower, and even consider investing in a mesh filter or hair catcher.

7. Schedule An Appointment With A Plumber

Take a few minutes to schedule an appointment with your local plumber. They can come to your home and inspect your plumbing system to ensue it’s good to go for the summer. A professional inspection can save you money in the long run by preventing expensive issues or repairs in the future.

Schedule Professional Plumbing Services With Leak Finders Today In Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas!

For over 20 years, Leak Finders in Richmond, VA has been providing professional, quality plumbing services people can count on. Contact us to schedule your appointment today. We can be reached at (804) 867-2114 or online here.

Should I Repair or Replace My Leaky Faucet?

Drip, drip, drip. Not only can the sound of a leaky faucet be annoying, but it can also be frustrating. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, a leaky faucet dripping at the rate of one drip per second can waste 3,000 gallons of water per year. If you’re dealing with a damaged faucet, you may be wondering what steps come next. Should you repair or replace it? There are a few signs that’ll indicate whether a repair or replacement is necessary.

1. Old Age

Most faucets are designed to last for 15-20 years at best. If your faucet is over 15 years old, nearing the end of its life, and exhibiting signs of failure, then you may want to consider a replacement.

Solution: Replacement

2. Frequent Repairs Are Needed

Do you have your plumber on speed dial? If you see your plumber more than your own family at this point, then that’s a sure sign you should stop calling for repairs and invest in a new faucet all together. A few repairs here and there are probably cheaper than a replacement. However, if your repairs are starting to burn a hole in your wallet, then replacing your leaky faucet will be more cost-efficient.

Solution: Replacement

3. A One-Off Fix

If you’ve never had issues with your faucet, and it’s still relatively new, then a repair probably makes more financial sense than a total replacement. This is especially true if it’s an easy fix, like replacing the O-ring or a washer and cleaning the inside of the faucet. A handle that squeaks, for example, can be caused by a loose washer – and usually, this is something that can be easily fixed with a repair.

Solution: Repair

4. Extensive Damage

However, if it’s not an easy fix and there is extensive damage like internal corrosion or worn threads, then replacing the old faucet with a new one might make more sense financially. The best way to know if your faucet has taken on irreparable damage is to have a plumber out to take a look.

Solution: Replacement

5. Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure may indicate a water line break or a blockage in your sewer line. This debris can reduce water pressure. However, if the low water pressure is restricted to a single faucet and not all of your fixtures, then the problems is likely not with your pipes or water supply, but rather with the fixture itself. This may mean there is a clog in your aerator or cartridge from hard water build up. Usually, they just need to be cleaned by a professional.

Solution: Repair

6. Irregular Water Flow

Much like low water pressure, irregular water flow could be due to a clogged aerator filter. It could also be due to air that has collected in the water lines. If you’re noticing the water is spitting, sputtering, or spraying rather than coming out of the faucet in a steady stream, then contact a plumber to repair your fixture.

Solution: Repair

Schedule Professional Leak Detection and/or Repair Services With Leak Finders Today In Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas!

For over 20 years, Leak Finders in Richmond, VA has been providing professional, quality leak detection and repair services people can count on. You can trust us to find and repair your leaks quickly. Contact us to schedule your appointment today. We can be reached at (804) 867-2114 or online here.

Top 5 Signs You Have A Hidden Water Leak In Your Home

While some leaks are obvious, others aren’t so much. You could have a hidden water leak in your home and not know it until it’s too late – when you come across water or structural damage as a result. Luckily, there are signs to watch for that may indicate you have a hidden water leak.

1. Damaged Walls, Ceilings, or Flooring

You’re familiar with how your walls, ceilings, and floors look. If you notice any changes, such as staining, warping, bubbling or sagging, then chances are you have a hidden water leak. Don’t wait to contact a plumber if you notice this happening in your home.

2. Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure can make tasks such as showering, bathing, or washing dishes quite the frustrating task. Usually, low water pressure is caused by a buildup of sediment in your pipes, faulty valves, and water leaks. It’s hard to say if the low water pressure you’re experiencing is a result of a leak or not, but it’s a good idea to have a professional plumber out to your home to check just in case.

3. You Hear Running Water

Do you hear running water when no plumbing fixtures are turned on and when no appliances, such as your washing machine and dishwasher, are in use? If so, then you could have a hidden water leak. In this case, you should find your home’s main water shut-off valve, shut off your water supply, and contact a plumber as soon as you can.

4. Mold and Mildew – Or A Musty Smell!

Even if you don’t see visible signs of mold and mildew, that musty smell may tell you all you need to know. Hidden leaks commonly occur in dark places, like behind walls or under your carpets. Moisture and darkness create an ideal environment for mold or mildew to grow. If you see mold and mildew, or your house smells musty, then you can be fairly confident there’s a hidden water leak somewhere close by.

5. Strange Plumbing Sounds

When everything is in good working condition, you shouldn’t hear a lot of noise coming from your pipes. However, if you start to notice sounds like vibrating, rattling, or hissing, then these could be signs of a much larger problem – like a hidden water leak inside your walls or your pipes.

Schedule Professional Leak Detection and/or Repair Services With Leak Finders Today In Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas!

For over 20 years, Leak Finders in Richmond, VA has been providing professional, quality leak detection and repair services people can count on. We use the most advanced technology on the market and have many non-invasive methods to find the problems as quickly as possible. You can trust us to find and repair your leaks quickly. Contact us to schedule your appointment today. We can be reached at (804) 867-2114 or online here.

6 Signs Your Plumbing Has Sprung A Leak This Spring

There’s nothing like a plumbing leak to ruin a perfectly good spring day. Luckily, there are many signs to look for that indicate a plumbing leak so you can address it. Because plumbing leaks are a serious issue, it’s important to address them right away. According to the EPA, roughly 10% of homes have an undetected water leak that loses them around 90 gallons of water per day. Here are the top 6 signs your plumbing has sprung a leak this spring.

1. Low Water Pressure

Do you notice a drop in water pressure when you turn on the shower, or go to wash dishes in the sink? This could be a sign that there’s a leak happening somewhere in your home. Even a small leak can cause a dip in your water pressure. 

2. High Water Bills

Unless you’ve had an unusual increase in activity in your home, your water bills likely stay the same each month. However, if you’ve recently noticed your water bills creeping up, this could be an indication of a water leak somewhere in your system. 

3. Visible Mold or Mildew

It’s not uncommon to see mold and mildew in areas that contain a lot of moisture, such as the bathroom or kitchen. However, if you’re noticing mold on walls, baseboards, ceilings, and floors, that’s concerning. This could indicate there’s a hidden leak that you haven’t found yet.

4. Musty Smelling Rooms

Sometimes you smell it before you see it. Foul odors, such as musty smelling rooms, are never a good sign. This is an indication that you have mold and mildew that could be growing inside your walls, vents, or under the floor – where you cannot see. Mold and mildew grows and thrives in moist conditions. Water that sits in one place for too long, such as under a leaking pipe, can cause a terrible odor. 

5. Puddles In The Yard

If it hasn’t rained recently and you notice damp or wet spots in your yard, or around your garden, this could be cause for concern. Usually, this is a sign you have a burst pipe. The best thing to do would be to try locating the leak, and if you can’t, contact a leak detection company for assistance.

6. A Running Meter

If your water meter is running when there’s no water turned on, this could be a sign you have a leak. When there’s no water turned on inside your home, and you’re not using any appliances like your washing machine or dishwasher, you shouldn’t see your water meter changing. However, if you do, you should contact a plumber right away. 

Schedule Professional Leak Detection Services With LeakFinders Today In Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas!

For over 20 years, LeakFinders in Richmond, VA has been providing professional, quality leak detection and repair services people can count on. We use the most advanced technology on the market and have many non-invasive methods to find the problems as quickly as possible. You can trust us to find and repair your leaks quickly. Contact us to schedule your appointment today. We can be reached at (804) 867-2114 or online here. 

Concrete Leaks: How To Detect A Water Leak Under Your Concrete?

When it comes to leaks under your concrete, they can be difficult to find. They can also be the most dangerous and expensive for this very reason. If you think you may have a concrete leak, then you should find it and have it fixed quickly. Here’s how to detect a water leak under your concrete.

1. Know The Signs

First things first – you need to know the signs and what to look for when it comes to leaks in your home. Here are the signs you may have a concrete water leak:

• The sound of running water
• Wet spots on the floor
• High water bills
• Cracking or buckling foundation
• Decrease water pressure
• Mold or mildew smell

2. Test For Leaks

There are some DIY things you can do to test for leaks before calling a professional out to your home. Here’s how you can test for leaks, step-by-step:

• Step 1: Turn off all water appliances and make sure no water is being used inside or outside the house. This includes toilets, sprinklers, and more.
• Step 2: Find your water meter and remove the cover
• Step 3: Check the leak indicator to see if it’s moving. If the dial is moving, chances are you have a leak.

You can also take a meter reading and wait a couple of hours to take another one. If the reading has changed, then you have a leak. However, if you do this, then you need to make sure you’re still not using any water during that time.

3. Call a Professional Leak Detection Company

Even if you’ve determined you have a leak by following the steps above, it can still be touch to pinpoint the exact location and cause of the leak without the help of a professional. A qualified plumbing company has professional equipment, tools and expertise to be able to detect your most stubborn leaks. The sooner you detect the leak, the sooner you can get them fixed. Leaving leaks unaddressed can cause a variety of problems, including high water bills, damage to your home, mold growth and more.

Schedule Your Concrete Leak Detection and Repair Service With Leak Finders Today in Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas!

At Leak Finders, we are the leak detection specialists with the tools and methods to fix leaks in your concrete – without unnecessary demolition or excess digging. Our goal is to fix leaks quickly and efficiently without causing damage to your home or yard. Whether we’re working with foundation or basement walls, or even under sidewalks, we have the tools to be able to determine the exact location of your leak and remove only the material necessary to fix it. Contact us to schedule your concrete leak detection and repair service. We can be reached at (804) 867-2114 or online here.

Top 5 Signs Your Kitchen Faucet Needs Repair

Your kitchen faucet is an important part of your day-to-day life. Not only that, but it can be extremely inconvenient, a huge water waster, and lead to high utility bills. Here are the top 5 signs your kitchen faucet needs repair.

1. Leaking Faucet

We’ve all heard the constant “drip, drip, drip” of a leaking faucet at one point or another.  It’s an issue that’s hard to ignore – and one that leads to high water bills. If your faucet is leaking, no matter how much, call your local plumber to have it repaired right away. According to the Environment Protection Agency, a leaky faucet that drips at the rate of one drip per second can waste more than 3,000 gallons of water per year.

2. Damaged Parts

Do you have a kitchen faucet that has damaged components, such as a handle that no longer works? While it may be just be time to replace your entire faucet, it may be something worth fixing – especially if you love your current faucet!

3. Your Faucet “Spits”

Your kitchen faucet should provide a nice, steady stream of water whenever you turn it on. However, sometimes, faucets ‘spit’ water. This is likely due to a clogged aerator and is something that can usually be fixed quickly by a professional.

4. Strange Sounds

Is your kitchen faucet making strange noises? The only thing you should hear coming out of your faucet is water. Anything other than that is cause for concern. Sounds can vary, from a clanking or a clicking sound to a screeching sound. Each sound has different meaning and should be looked at by a professional plumber.

5. Water Damage

If you notice any water damage at the bottom of your faucet or under the sink, this is a sign you need to have it repaired. Water damage can lead to other problems, such as mold and mildew, if not addressed quickly. Make sure too clean the area and call a professional right away if you notice any signs of water damage.

Schedule Professional Kitchen Faucet Repair Services With LeakFinders Today In Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas!

For over 20 years, LeakFinders in Richmond, VA has been providing professional, quality leak detection and repair services people can count on. We use the most advance technology on the market and have many non-invasive methods to finding the problems as quickly as possible. You can trust us for all your to repair your leaky kitchen faucet right away. Contact us to schedule your free estimate. We can be reached at (804) 867-2114 or online here.

How To Prevent Pipe Leaks From Ruining Your Valentine’s Day

There’s nothing like pipe leaks to ruin a romantic evening with your loved one. The last thing you want is to deal with water damage or a burst pipe. There are steps you can take to prevent a leaking pipe before the leaking even starts. Here’s how:

• Insulate your pipes
• Schedule professional inspections regularly
• Tighten the fittings
• Measure the water pressure
• Install a water softener

However, sometimes no matter what you do, leaks can still find their way in your plumbing system. Luckily, there are steps you can take to make sure your pipe leaks don’t get in the way if that happens.

1. Check Your Water Meter

Don’t let a leak ruin the mood on Valentine’s Day! One way to check for a sign of a hidden leak is to check your meter. First, make sure all the water in your home is turned off and then monitor your water meter. If you see the meter moving still, then most likely you have a fast-moving leak on your hands. If you don’t see any movement right away, take an accurate reading of the meter and then wait a couple hours. If you see a difference, then most likely you have a slow-moving leak – which means you should still have a plumber out to take a look.

2. Monitor Your Water Bills

Unless you have guests staying over, then most likely you use the same amount of water each month – which means your bills will be around the same amount each month, too. If you notice that your usage has stayed the same, but your bills are skyrocketing, then it’s likely you have a water leak.

3. Use Food Coloring

The good ol’ food coloring trick you’ve probably heard about before actually works. To test for leaks with your toilet, add a few drops of food coloring to your toilet tank and wait about 10 minutes. If the color shows up in your bowl, then you have a leak and need to contact a plumber for assistance.

4. Fix Leaks Right Away

Sometimes no matter what you do, leaks still find their way into your plumbing system. It’s important that you fix them right away. Otherwise, you could be looking at possible water damage. Not only is water damage inconvenient, but it can also be expensive. The last thing you want is for all your household items to be ruined due to water damage.

Schedule Professional Leak Services With LeakFinders Today In Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas!

For over 20 years, LeakFinders in Richmond, VA has been providing professional, quality leak detection and repair services people can count on. We use the most advance technology on the market and have many non-invasive methods to finding the problems as quickly as possible. You can trust us for all your leak detection and repair needs. Contact us to schedule your free estimate. We can be reached at (804) 867-2114 or online here.