There are a few indications you might have a slab leak. 1. Higher water bill than normal, some slab leaks can be exceedingly small but will eventually get bigger. 2. Warm spot on the floor. Higher percentage of slab leaks are on the hot side. If you notice this call a licensed plumber and they can diagnose the problem. 3. Water seeping out underneath cabinets or on floor in or near any plumbing in the house.
Q. Do I really need to worry about hidden leaks?
Hidden leaks can be very serious, if you notice any moisture in your home you should call a licensed plumber to come diagnose the issue. Small leaks can cause extensive and expensive damage to your home. The average leak can cost up to $3000.00. In most cases, after a licensed plumber diagnosis a leak, you can file a claim with your insurance to cover most of the repair costs. It is important to contact a licensed plumber when you first notice the moisture, to avoid the chance of mold to start growing in the confined places where these leaks start.
Q. Should I repair or replace leaky faucets?
It is important to take quick action if you have any leaks in your home. These leaks can be faucets, shut off valves under sinks and tub and shower valves. Tub and shower valve leaks may be leaking into the wall which can be more serious. Call a licensed plumber and they will diagnose whether it would be cheaper to repair or replace faucets effected.
Q. My toilet sounds like it is constantly running - is there anything I can do to fix it?
Yes. Most of the time it will be a defective flapper or the fill valve can be adjusted. Still a good idea to have a licensed plumber come out to diagnose the problem. Many times it will require a tank rebuild.
Q. Is having a tankless water heater more beneficial than a conventional heater?
In these times of energy conservation, people are looking to be more energy efficient. Tankless water heaters are one of these ways. They do come with a higher price tag but as water heater companies start to phase out some water heaters and move to tankless systems, this option might be considered. There are hybrid tanked water heaters with a comparable price tag to the tankless systems, but do not provide endless hot water like a tankless system does and also requires the water to be reheated in order to achieve ideal water temperature.
Q. Why does my hot water not work as well in the winter?
There are a few reasons your water heater might not be functioning like it use to. Electric water heaters have heating elements that may need to be replaced. Gas water heaters can have a build up of sediment in the bottom which can affect the heating process of your system. The average life of a water heater is 8-10 years if annually maintained.
Q. How can I tell if I need a water heater replacement?
The average water heater life is 8-10 years with proper maintenance. The date the water heater was installed is usually on the label located on the front of the tank. If no date can be located, you can go online and look up by the serial number.
Q. What do I do if my toilet overflows?
First thing you would want to do is turn the shut off valve off underneath the toilet, usually located on the wall on the lower left side of the toilet. If the valve seems to be to hard to turn do not force it, that might lead to a bigger issue. Plunge the toilet to see if water level goes down. Do not continue to flush if the water level does not go down, this will cause further flooding. Call a licensed plumber who can use tools that should clear the toilet.
Q. Why do my pipes rattle and make noise all the time?
There are several reasons this could happen. 1. Your water pressure can be too high. 2. Your irrigation system could be malfunctioning. 3. Your pool filler might need to be replaced or adjusted. All these issues can be diagnosed and repaired by a licensed plumber.