205-655-2396 Water leaks often stay hidden until damage becomes severe. Even small leaks can waste thousands of gallons of water a year. Birmingham homeowners face higher risks due to aging infrastructure, shifting soil, and heavy rainfall. Learning how leak detection works, the benefits, and warning signs enables you to protect your home.
What Is a Leak Detection System?
A leak detection system uses advanced technology to detect leaks before they cause structural damage. Our professionals can help you protect your home by installing these devices.
Leak detection systems use specialized sensors strategically placed at points where leaks are most likely to occur. We can install them to monitor leaks in plumbing, dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters. The sensors continuously monitor for leaks by sending data to a central control unit.
If the leak detection system detects a leak, it sends out alerts that may include alarms, smartphone notifications, or visible indicators. Some advanced leak detection systems can even shut off the water when they detect a leak. These systems offer the highest level of protection.
How Leak Detection Saves Money
Water damage is expensive to repair, especially if it becomes widespread. You could end up paying thousands of dollars in home repairs. For instance, a homeowner notices higher water bills and a warm spot on their kitchen flooring. An unseen slab leak can cost $20,000 or more to repair, including the cost to restore the foundation, flooring, and structure. With a leak detection system in place, the homeowner learns about the leak before significant damages occur.
With leak detection in place, you will receive an immediate alert, avoiding water waste and expense. Leak detection systems can also help you avoid costly emergency plumbing repairs. You can find the leak and schedule prompt services to restore your plumbing system.
Signs You Might Need Leak Detection
Hidden leaks are not always easy to find without specialized equipment. However, you may notice a few symptoms that can prompt you to seek professional plumbing repair.
High water bills are one of the first-noticed signs of problems. Sudden spikes in water usage without a corresponding increase in use should raise concern. You can check your water meter to see if it turns on with all water taps and appliances shut off. If it still turns, there’s a leak.
You may also notice visible signs of leaks, including water stains on ceilings, damp spots on floors, or bubbling paint. These signs may not be visible until the leak progresses.
If a leak remains hidden for too long, your home may develop a musty odor. This sign indicates the presence of mold and mildew growth, which can lead to further problems in your home.
Birmingham’s clay soil poses problems for leak development. It expands and contracts and can shift after heavy rains, stressing underground pipes and creating hidden slab leaks. If you notice the above signs, it’s critical to schedule a plumbing inspection. The professionals at Wilbur’s have the tools to locate and repair hidden leaks.
Why Birmingham Homeowners Benefit From Leak Detection
Outdated plumbing can become damaged over time and is more likely to develop leaks due to wear and tear. Aging plumbing infrastructure, commonly found in older homes like those in Norwood, requires leak detection systems and regular updates. Taking these measures can protect your home against hidden leaks that destroy its historical beauty.
Birmingham gets its fair share of unpredictable weather throughout the year. The season for heavy rainfall lasts from March to August and can cause stress on pipes and foundations.
The warmer months are not the only time for potential weather-related leaks. They can also occur during the freeze-thaw cycle in winter. As temperatures drop below freezing at night, the residual water inside your pipes can freeze, causing it to expand and potentially crack the pipe. Once the pipes thaw, you will have a substantial leak on your hands.
With Birmingham’s unpredictable weather, having a leak detection system is no longer a luxury, but it has become a necessity. Our leak detection services protect your home from thousands of dollars of destruction.
Protect Your Home With Leak Detection
With advancing technology, Birmingham homeowners can avoid stressing over hidden leaks. Our plumbers can help you determine the ideal leak detection system to protect your home. We’ve proudly served our customers since 1979 and possess the experience and knowledge necessary to handle all your plumbing needs.
Contact Wilbur’s Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing today to schedule leak detection services in Birmingham.
