An underground water leak is a messy and complicated problem to detect and resolve, but hiring an experienced plumber for leak detection services can alleviate a lot of the stress that water leaks evoke. Seattle homeowners should have the contact information of a reputable plumber on hand in case a plumbing emergency occurs because a prolonged water leak can cause extreme damage to your home’s plumbing system, foundation, and lawn and can result in flooding, rot, and mold.
Underground Water Leak Warning Signs
- A detectable decrease in water pressure
- An irrigated area of lawn that is suddenly brown and dying
- Cracked pavement
- Sudden increase in water usage and water bill
- Sinkholes or potholes
- Ponding of water on ground and lawn
- Air or dirt in your tap water
- Unpleasant odor
- Cracks in foundation of your home
- Water in the street
- Puddles in your home, particularly on floors and under sinks
What Sounds Do Water Leaks Make?
You may notice several sounds emanating from your underground water pipes that help to diagnose leaks. Your plumber will check for sounds such as “splashing,” “clinking,” and “hissing.” Splashing sounds occur when water sprays the wall of a soil cavity, and clinking sounds come from stones and pebbles bouncing off of pipes. Hissing sounds indicate a decrease in pressure. The frequency range and intensity of the sounds depend on how deep the pipe is buried, the material covering the ground’s surface, soil type and compaction, the pipe’s water pressure, and the pipe’s material and diameter.
If you suspect an underground water leak near your Seattle home, reach out to a trained plumber at Apollo Plumbing as soon as possible. As far as plumbing complications are concerned, time is of the essence because water has the potential to cause significant damage in your home and yard.
