Why Professional Leak Detection Is Essential In Winter

Professional leak detection is essential in winter for one very big reason: temperature! With winter comes colder temperatures, and colder temperatures can wreak havoc on your plumbing system – especially if you have a leak!

Fluctuating low and freezing temperatures make leaks even more likely to occur. Low temperatures can put an added level of stress on your plumbing system, often leading to broken pipes, water damage, failing water heaters, and more. If you have a leak in the winter, your pipes could be in danger – especially if you live somewhere that experiences below freezing temperatures this time of year. When water freezes, it expands. In turn, this can cause your pipes to crack or even burst.

Signs You Have A Leaking Pipe

Leaks aren’t always obvious. They can hide behind walls or under floors and you’d never know it – until it causes a great deal of damage to your home (and your wallet). That’s why professional leak detection is so important to catch those leaks before they become much bigger and costlier problems. Here are the signs to watch out for:

• Low Water Pressure
• Mold or Mildew
• Wet Spots on Walls, Ceilings, or Floors
• Higher-Than-Usual Water Bills
• Foul Odors
• Wall Cracks

If you experience any of these signs, you could have a leak hiding in your home – just out of sight. It’s important to react quickly to any sign of leaks.

How To Avoid Winter Plumbing Leak Issues:

There are precautions homeowners can take to avoid the risk of winter plumbing leaks. Here are some tips to avoiding leak issues this season:

• Protect Your Pipes With Insulation
• Disconnect Outdoor Appliances
• Check Your Sump Pump

If you follow these tips, know the signs to look for and know who to call if you have a problem, you are in good shape to catch these issues early on!

LeakFinders is Here To Help With All Your Leak Detection Needs in Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas

At LeakFinders, our team does more than just find the leak – we fix it! Even the smallest leaks can begin to cause significant structural damage if left untreated. That’s why we recommend you contact the professionals for leak detection services the moment you suspect a problem with your pipes.

We offer a wide range of leak detection services, including:

• Leak Repairs
• Slab Leaks
• Utility Leaks
• Water Line Leaks
• Under Driveway Leaks
• Concrete Leaks
• Sewer Lines

For over 20 years, LeakFinders in Richmond, VA has been providing professional, quality leak detection 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) 767-3580 or online here.

Do Your Pipes Sound Haunted? 3 Spooky Sounds Your Pipes Might Make

If you hear spooky sounds around your house this Halloween, it’s likely not a ghost. More likely than not, there’s an issue with your pipes. Different sounds mean different things. Here are the top 3 spooky sounds your pipes might make.

1. Humming

Are you hearing humming noises in the middle of the night? This can be especially concerning if you’re not sure where it’s coming from. If you hear humming in your pipes, it could mean a number of things. One cause could be from abnormally high water pressure. This could leave your pipes vibrating, which will result in a humming noise – especially if your water is running.

Another cause could be due to your motor running but not pumping water. Whatever the cause may be, you should contact your local plumber for assistance if you notice your pipes humming.

2. Rattling or Banging

There’s nothing like rattling or banging in your home to scare you out of the house. A rattling sound in your pipes usually means there’s a loose component. A rattling or banging noise is often referred to as “water hammer” and usually means you have a blocked vent pipe. Another cause could be a sudden change in water pressure.

Water hammer is a serious issue that should be addressed quickly. If not dealt with, it could cause erosion and damage to the pipes, valves, and fittings. Not only that, but it can also cause your pipes to burst. Regardless of the cause, contact your plumber if you notice a rattling or banging sound in your pipes.

3. Gurgling

Gurgling can be caused when something is preventing water or air from flowing through your drains. No, there’s not a scary creature in your home if you hear gurgling noises. More than likely, it’s your pipes letting you know there’s a serious clog issue. It’s inevitable – overtime, dirt, hair, and grease build up in your plumbing pipes. If you’ve noticed that your water is draining slower than usual, or water isn’t draining at all, then this could be why. The bubbly noises you hear are from the blocked air bubbles that aren’t able to flow smoothly through your plumbing pipes due to the clog.

The best way to ensure your drains are clog-free is to call a plumber for professional drain cleaning.

Need the Help of a Professional Plumber? Contact The Pros at Leak Finders Today in Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas!

We are here to answer all your questions about pipes, leaks, and so much more. Contact us today at 804-767-3580 or schedule a service with us online here.

The Top 6 Common Causes Of Household Water Leaks

Homeownership comes with its pros and cons. One of those cons is having to deal with water leaks – something no homeowner wants to deal with. Here are the top 6 common causes of household water leaks you should know.

1. Clogged Drains

Whether it’s your toilet, sink, or shower, clogs can cause water leaks if ignored. If you leave a clog unaddressed for a while, eventually it can lead to increased pressure within your pipes – in turn, causing it to crack or burst.

2. Bathroom Leaks

It can be hard to identify water leaks in the bathroom because it’s a source of water. If you find water on the floor, it’s easy to assume someone didn’t wash off good enough when getting out of the shower for example. Tubs and showers have seals that are design to keep water flowing down the drains into the sewer. If a seal is faulty, it could cause a water leak.

3. Water Heaters

While water heaters are designed to last a long time, even the best ones can leak. If you suspect you may have a water heater leak, it could be due to the pressure in the tank. Pressure occurs in water heaters because of the hot water, which creates steam. However, if too much pressure builds up in the water heater tank, the water can leak through cracks and loose parts.

4. Corroded Pipes

It’s inevitable that corroded pipes will happen eventually. Usually pipe corrosion occurs when old metal pipes get rusts on the inside from years and years of water flow. Because the metal is breaking down, it can eventually leak or burst.

5. High Water Pressure

While pipes are built to withstand pressure, too much pressure can cause unwanted damage. Excessive water pressure can stress out your pipes, causing them to eventually crack and leak. To refrain from creating pinholes in your pipes and being left with water damage, make sure your water pressure isn’t too high.

6. Temperature Fluctuations

This is common, especially in the winter when the temperatures outside get cold. When that happens, homeowners often find themselves taking hotter showers, for example. Rapid temperature fluctuations, however, can cause water leaks in your home. This is because when the temperature changes from hot to cold, or cold to hot, it forces water pipes to either expand or contract – quickly. To avoid frozen and/or cracked pipes, make sure you don’t adjust the temperature too quickly.

Need Water Leak Detection Services? Leak Finders In Richmond, VA Has You Covered!

No matter how much effort you put into making sure you don’t end up with a water leak, sometimes it happens to the best of us anyways. If you fear you may have a water leak, look no further than Leak Finders! We can help you find the source of your most stubborn leaks, provide you with solutions, and get your home back to where you want it to be. Give us a call today at 804-867-2114.

4 Tell-Tale Signs You Have A Water Leak Under Your Driveway

Water leaks, in general, can be tricky to figure out if you don’t have the training and skills. Leaks that are beneath a concrete or asphalt driveway are even trickier. Not only can these types of leaks be tough to repair, but they can also be tough to find. Trying to pinpoint the exact location of a water leak is no easy task. Here are 4 tell-tale signs you have a water leak under your driveway.

1. Water Bill Increase

Unless you have an increase of activity in your home, such as hosting out-of-town guests, then you can usually expect your water bill to stay consistent month over month. However, if you notice a sudden increase in your water bill with no explanation as to why, then it could be an indication there’s a water leak somewhere.

2. Decrease In Water Pressure

If the water pressure in your home has dropped drastically, then that is a tell-tale sign you may have a leak on your hands. A total loss of water pressure is a strong indication that the water main in your property could be having issues. When homeowners do experience a loss of water pressure due to a leak, it often means the leak is extreme. A small leak typically won’t cause a total loss of water pressure.

3. Strange Sounds In Basement

Strange noises in the basement sounds a lot like something out of a horror movie. We know, we get it. If you hear rumbling, hissing, or burbling sound in your basement – even when water isn’t being used – you may have a water leak under your driveway. To top it off, these sounds are often more evident in the evening when the home is more quiet and still.

4. Unusual Puddles Or Damp Spots

A water leak under your driveway will usually produce a stream of water that appears as pooling water or puddles on the surface of your property, on the driveway, or even through a foundation wall. Before you start to dig and try to perform a repair, have a professional check for leaks. It’s possible the water has traveled from a neighbors home, so it’s always a good idea to check for leaks before making any major repair decisions.

Need Help Identifying and Repairing A Leak? Leave It To The Richmond, VA Pros at Leak Finders!

The main issue is usually finding the source of the water leak. There is no task too big or small for the team at Leak Finders. We will not only find the source of the leak for you, but we will work diligently and efficiently to repair it. Get back to feeling comfortable and relaxed in your home without the disruption of a pesky water leak. Don’t worry about your hard-to-reach water leak. Call Leak Finders for repairs under driveways in Richmond, VA. Contact us at 804-767-3580 today or fill out online form here so a team member can be in touch with you soon.

Top 5 Smart Ways To Find Hidden Water Leaks In Your Home

A lot of times, water leaks can be hard to see unless you’re looking for them. However, early leak detection can save you a lot of money – and prevent potential disasters. Here are the top 5 ways you can find hidden water leaks in your home.

1. Check Your Water Meter

If you know your water usage hasn’t increased recently but your water bills seem higher-than-usual, check your water meter. Before you do, though, you’ll first want to make sure you turn all water off – including the water inside. If the leak indicator on your water meter is moving/turning after you’ve turned the water off, that’s an indication you have a leak. If you’re unsure where your water meter is located – or you need help checking it – contact your local plumber at Leak Finders!

2. Perform A Visual Inspection

There are many signs that might indicate a hidden leak. Performing a visual inspection will help you pinpoint where the leak is coming from so a plumber can investigate further. Leaks that come from plumbing inside the walls or ceiling frequently go unnoticed until it’s too late. Not only that, but if you also notice damp spots on your flooring or carpeting, that’s also an indication of a water leak somewhere.

3. Check Your Plumbing Fixtures

According to the EPA, a faucet that drips at the rate of one drip per second can waste more than 3,000 gallons per year. That being said, even the smallest leak should be addressed quickly. A lot of times, the source of a water leak stems from your faucets, shower, or toilet. You should look for drips from your tubs and showers, check for puddles around your water heater and washing machine hoses, and look under kitchen and bathroom sinks.

4. Be Mindful of Underground Water Leaks

Underground water leaks are tricky. The best way to spot if you’re dealing with an underground water leak is to look near your driveway or street to see if there’s any unusual water flow – or puddles that seem out of place. Not only that, but you can also look for wet spots in your yard. For example, if it’s been really hot at your home but there’s one area of the grass that has remained wet, it’s likely you have an underground water leak.

5. Hire A Professional Plumber

Leaks, no matter how big or small, are best left to the pros. If you hear water running when you shouldn’t or you notice unexplained increase in your water bill, you may have leaks in your home – hiding just out of sight. Our professional plumbers at Leak Finders have the skills, tools, and equipment to detect leaks quickly and efficiently. Not only do they find the leak – they fix it!

Contact Leak Finders Today For All Your Leak Detection Needs!

Leak Finders is proud to offer 20 years of experience to Richmond, VA and surrounding areas. We are here to detect your leaks and fix them so you can get back to comfort as soon as possible. Leave the stress to us! Contact us today at 804-767-3580 to get started with a free estimate – or fill out our online form here.

How To Stop An Underground Water Leak?

If you are dealing with an underground water leak, you may be in panic mode trying to figure out how to stop it. In this how-to guide, we explain how to find an underground water leak and how you should go about getting it fixed so you can get your property back to normal again.

Step 1: Check Your Water Meter

Locate your water meter, usually placed in the sidewalk at the front or side of your house. Look for a metal lid on a concrete box. Once you locate it, turn off the main water valve so there isn’t any running water in your home. On your water meter, you should be able to find a leak indicator. When you have running water in your house, the indicator will spin but since you shut off the water, you should not see it spinning. If you do, however, that is an indication you have a leak. In the event your water meter does not have a leak indicator, you’ll want to make note of the current water meter reading. Wait 30-60 minutes and check it again. If the reading has changed, you have a leak.

Step 2: Know What You’re Looking For

Unless you’re someone very familiar with your underground plumbing, then you likely will wonder where you’re even supposed to look. Unfortunately, underground leaks don’t typically present obvious signs of a leak. Therefore, you’ll want to know the signs of an underground water leak and what you should be looking for.

Signs Of An Underground Water Leak

• Water pooling in the yard
• High water bill
• Low water pressure
• Cracked pavement or bulges in the driveway
• Sinkholes or potholes in your yard
• Cracked foundation or wet spots
• Air or dirt in water
• Unpleasant smells
• Water in the street

Step 3: Call A Professional Leak Detection Company

Realizing you have a plumbing problem is the first step. Now that you’ve detected you have a leak, you can take the next step to getting it fixed. However, you will need to enlist the help of a trusted, professional plumber to find out exactly where the leak is located underground. Unless you’re a plumber and have the expertise to fix plumbing issues, it’s best to leave this task to the pros. There is a lot that goes into fixing these types of leaks that we don’t recommend our customers try on their own.

Call Leak Finders, Your Trusted Leak Detection and Repair Professionals In Richmond, VA!

At Leak Finders, we not only find your leaks but we also fix them. For over 20 years, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners in our community address leaks – no matter how big or small. Finding and taking care of leaks before they’re able to cause further structural damage is a responsibility our team takes seriously with each and every job. For leak detection and repair you can count on, schedule a free estimate with Leak Finders by calling us at 804-767-3580 or filling out our online form here.

Home Leak Detection Services: How Much Does It Cost?

If you suspect you may have a leak but aren’t sure where, you can call a professional for assistance. Early leak detection can save you money and prevent potential disaster. Unfortunately, leaks can be tough to spot. For example, if you hear water running when you know the taps are off, or you have noticed unexplained increases in your water bill, you may have a hidden water leak.

How To Test For Leaks:

There’s a simple test you can do at home to determine if you have a leak somewhere in your home.

• Turn off all appliances that use water (dishwasher, washing machine, etc.)
• Make sure all of your faucets are off and don’t use any water for at least 20 minutes during the test
• Locate your water meter and remove the cover once you do
• If any dials are moving, this means water is flowing through your pipes.
• If you don’t see any movement, write down the number on the meter’s dial
• In 20 minutes, check the meter again. If the number has changed, then you have a leak

So I Have A  Leak…Now What?

If you have a leak, no matter how big or small, you should call a professional leak detection service to repair the leak right away. Remember that small leaks can mean big problems and shouldn’t be ignored. Even the smallest leaks can begin to cause significant structural damage, resulting in mold or mildew growth. Not only that, but they can also be a contributing factor to your higher-than-usual water bills.

How Much Is This Going to Cost Me?

The price varies depending on the severity of your water leak, and also the type of leak you have in your home. At LeakFinders, we offer free consultations and provide upfront pricing so you know exactly what you should expect to pay. Plus, we are also proud to offer financing options for our customers. It can be much more costly to leave a leak unrepaired. Not only can your water bills skyrocket, but leaks can cause major structural damage and result in expensive repairs.

Types Of Leak Detection Services

When it comes to cost of home leak detection services, the prices range depending on the needs of each individual homeowner. At LeakFinders, we offer a wide range of leak detection services including:

• Leak Repairs
• Slab Leaks
• Utility Leaks
• Water Line Leaks
• Under Driveway Leaks
• Concrete Leaks
• Sewer Lines

Has Your Home Sprung A Water Leak? LeakFinders Is Here To Help!

LeakFinders, your go-to leak detection experts in Richmond, VA, are here and ready to assist you. Not only do we find your leak – but we fix it. We utilize the most advanced technology on the market to find the problems as quickly as possible, in a non-invasive way. Call us today at (804) 867-2114 to schedule your free estimate or contact us online by filling out this form today.

 

Plumbing Leaks: 10 Things You Must Know

All You Need to Know About Plumbing Leaks 

Hidden plumbing leaks could be the reasons behind your ever-increasing water bill. To tackle them, it’s important to do a little research on them. To help you out, the pros at Leak Finders have prepared a helpful guide on all you need to know about plumbing leaks.

1. They Can Lead to A lot of Water Wastage

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the average household’s leaks can account for nearly 10,000 gallons of water lost every year. In addition, 10 percent of homes have leaks that waste 90 gallons or more per day. These types of leaks can significantly increase your water bill, so make sure you inspect your home for leaks every month. Be sure to look around your toilet, kitchen and bathroom faucets, bathtub, and showerhead.

2. There Are Signs for Hidden Leaks

Some water leaks are easy to spot or hear. Others, specifically hidden ones in the walls, ceilings or under sinks might be harder to notice. That’s why it is important to know some of the tell-tale signs of water leaks:

• Mold and mildew growth
• Water stains on ceilings
• Bubbling or peeling wallpaper
• Sagging or extremely green portions of your yard

3. Insulate Pipes to Prevent Leaks

During colder weather, there is a chance that your pipes might freeze or burst. To prevent this from happening, make sure you insulate your pipes with foam covers. In addition, to make sure you continue to have running hot water during the cold, keep your faucets dripping slightly (don’t worry, you won’t have to do this for long, just for a few nights!).

4. The Food Coloring Test is Effective!

If your toilet keeps making a dripping noise, you might have a toilet leak. To be completely sure, put a few drops of food coloring in your toilet tank. If you notice the food coloring make its way into the toilet bowl with five minutes or so, you have a toilet leak. This is most likely caused by a worn-out flapper, which is the seal between the tank and toilet bowl.

5. When in Doubt, Call a Plumber

If you are worried you have a leak, but you can’t seem to detect it or troubleshoot it safely or properly, get in touch with a plumber you trust. Nowadays, plumbers have all sorts of tools that help them detect and fix leaks efficiently!

6. If Ignored, Leaks Can Cause Damage

If you ignore a plumbing leak, it can grow significantly worse and even cause damage to your home in various ways. Leaks can lead to mildew and mold growth, dry wall rot etc.

7. Have an Emergency Plan

Incase of an emergency like a major leak, water damage or a burst pipe, everyone old enough in your home should know how to turn off the water supply or know who to call for help.

8. Check Your Water Meter

If you want to check for leaks, you can try checking your water meter. Simply turn off all faucets and water-using appliances and see if the meter moves. If it moves significantly, you might have a leak.

9. Invest in a Leak Detector

If you are worried about leaks wreaking havoc on your home, you can invest in a leak detector. These handy devices start as low as $20 and can keep an eye out for leaks.

10. Call Leak Finders for Leak Detection!

If you live in Richmond, VA, contact Leak Finders for all your leak detection and repair services! Call us at 804-867-2114 or schedule a service online.