Plumbing leaks are probably among the most common home problems that are hardly noticed. This is because they are not easy to spot even if you look for them diligently. Making things more difficult is the fact that many plumbing pipes are often located under the foundation, in the walls, or up in the ceiling joists.

Unattended leaks can have grave consequences. A leaky drain sink, for instance, can eventually contaminate your water supply. This can also attract mold spores which will enter your home and multiply. Similarly, if your shower drain pipes begin to leak, the bathroom could end up flooded, inviting hazardous sewage into your home. This won’t only cause your house to smell, it can likewise bring in disease-carrying bacteria that can spread and place your life in danger.

Four Common Water Leaks at Home

Spotting a few insects in the kitchen does not always mean you have a leak in the drain sink. However, if you notice that these pests appear to gather in one particular location for several days, you may need to check further.

Here are some common leaks that you should not disregard.

1. Faucet Leaks

The most common water leaks at home are often found in the most frequently visited areas. A good example of this is a leaky faucet connected to a worn-out washing machine. Although the drip may not be noticeable given that the area is often wet, it can become steady, gaining strength over time. Ultimately, you’ll have an unwanted pool of water around your washer, which can be dangerous.

2. Kitchen Sink Leaks

If there appears to be a pest infestation in your home, particularly, cockroaches, flies, and rats, check your kitchen sink drain as this could be leaking. Focus your attention to the areas beneath the sink, including the floors, cabinets, and grease traps, as leaks are known to develop there.

3. Basement Leaks

Some homeowners have a piping system that runs through their basement. If you’re one of them, you should consider getting the basement inspected regularly. One leaking drainpipe is enough for rats and other pests to find your basement the perfect home because water and moisture are abundant. A leaky basement is also dangerous as it can cause damage to other parts of the house.

An experienced plumbercan inspect your entire basement’s plumbing so you don’t have to do it yourself, which can be such a hassle if you’re busy with work. All plumbing issues can also be addressed more professionally since most plumbers readily know where to find a leak and get it fixed right away.

4. Appliance Leaks

There are several factors that can cause some of your appliances to leak, especially the water heater, dishwasher, refrigerator, and washing machine. These include clogs,broken parts, and the life span of the appliance. However, since many of these home appliances are connected to a water pipe, a crack or any damage to the line can cause them to leak.

Pests Attracted to Water and Moisture

Here are some common house pests that love moisture and practically anything damp or wet.

1. Rats

Rats can survive in a smallplumbing leak, or in a basement puddle. They seek water in dark and cramped areas and will eat anything that is available nearby. With their keen sense of smell and sensitivity to temperature changes, rats can easily locate drafts and moisture in a given area. If you discover plumbing leaks in your basement or attic, fix them immediately to prevent attracting rats.

2. Cockroaches

Cockroaches are attracted to damp areas.They love to crawl into pipes because they can hold their breath for over 30 minutes, and can live up to a whole month without food. To take over your home, these pests only need a moist environment.

3. Ants

When ants locate water, they can take in large quantities of this through a second stomach and bring this home to their colony. Don’t be surprised if you find them crawling in large groups around that part of your house where there are several damp spots.

4. Silverfish

Sporting a silvery exterior, these pests resemble cockroaches and survive in places where there are high levels of humidity and moisture. If you see them in your home, there is likely an area where excess moisture is present.

5. Termites

Termites are fond of rotting wood as it is their main food source, but they also love to chew on bathroom wallpaper, which is rich in moisture. Termite infestation can be damaging, but you can minimize this by keeping your home dry.

6. Drain Flies

This is a type of fly that lives in moist environments, such as your toilet, septic tanks, and drainage systems. Drain flies look more like a moth than a household fly though.

7. Mosquitoes

It’s impossible to talk about pests that love moisture without mentioningmosquitoes. These pests reproduce in as little as 1 inch of water. To prevent mosquitoes from multiplying, remove all standing water in your home and around your property. Spraying strategic areas with bug repellents can also get rid of these insects.

Dangers of Water Leaks

Complacent homeowners tend to procrastinate when dealing with plumbing issues like leaks. If ignored, these minor and easy-to-fix problems can become potential disasters, especially when they lead to structural damage, mold growth, and water contamination.

Key Takeaway

Leaks are common household problems, and because of this, many homeowners often just leave them alone. What they fail to realize is that even a small drip can lead to something disastrous like a sewage backup or water damage.

There is also the danger of pests invading your home due to unresolved leaks. Many of them, particularly cockroaches, mosquitoes, and rats, thrive in moist environments, and you can’t afford living with them. They bring a range of diseases that can prove to be fatal. The best and simplest way to keep these pests away is to keep your home clean and dry. If you spot a leak, have a plumber fix it right away.

Call Absolute Electrical Heating and Air to handle all common water leaks at home the right way.

While there’s nothing wrong about repairing leaks on your own, it is still recommended that you seek help from a skilled plumber. Absolute Electrical Heating and Air has professional plumbers trained to deal with different types of leaks, so you can have your plumbing system as good as new, but without incurring unnecessary costs.

We are at your service and we can start by having our Denver plumbing team conduct a thorough inspection of your plumbing system to see if a leak can be detected. Call us now.