For many homeowners, issues with their sewer lines can go unnoticed for extended periods until the problem worsens and becomes an immediate issue. When it comes to heavy rains moving through your area, the potential for water damage in the form of flooding, burst pipes, and more can leave your home’s plumbing in dire straits. If you find yourself dealing with a burst pipe, you need to know what signs to look out for in case there could be a more serious problem.
Shouldn’t a Burst Pipe Be Noticeable?
When you hear the words “burst pipe,” you often think of rushing water, immediate flooding, and frantically calling a plumber to help. However, not all burst pipes are created equal, and some may take their time to become a noticeable problem.
These issues can sometimes start as a small burst instead of the big energetic one that immediately comes to mind. These slower instances can lead to widespread water damage throughout your home if you don’t catch it early enough. In these cases, knowing what signs to keep an eye out for when your plumbing requires repair can make all the difference.
Inconsistent Water Pressure
One of the most common signs of an issue with your plumbing system revolves around the water pressure. It could point to a burst pipe if you notice that it has started to fluctuate wildly. Whether your shower or faucets, take notice of the drops and consider calling the professionals to take a look.
Water Looks Off
Homeowners would be surprised how often people can tell something is wrong with the plumbing just by looking at the water. If you let a burst pipe go unnoticed for long enough, it can cause components of the system to begin to rust. These particles can mix in with the water supply, causing the liquid to take on a brownish color.
Rotten Egg Smell
When you smell rotten eggs from a pipe, sewer drain, faucet, or other pieces of your plumbing system, the most likely culprit is a leak in your sewer line. Generally, if your sewer line bursts, the hydrogen sulfide will begin to drift through the system and quickly notify you that you have a burst sewer line somewhere that needs immediate attention.
You Can Hear the Water
When your toilet, shower, dishwasher, or washing machine turns on, it’s natural to hear the water rushing through the pipes to where it’s needed. However, if you hear these sounds when none of those appliances are turned on, you may be dealing with a burst pipe — the smaller the line, the louder the sound.
Additionally, the pipes themselves might be making loud and unusual noises if your pipes have burst. It affects the water pressure throughout your entire home, causing the components to rub and bang at certain tension points.
Unusually High Water Bill
Issues with your plumbing system can often be identified earlier than expected by paying attention to spikes in your water utility bills. If you notice that you are paying more for your standard water service without any drastic changes in your overall water usage, it could be a sign that a burst pipe is driving up your costs.
Let Mister Sewer, Plumbing and HVAC Help With Your Broken Pipe Needs
A plumbing problem that seems like it doesn’t have a readily identifiable cause could be due to a pipe leaking or bursting somewhere deep in your system. These plumbing issues can go unnoticed for long stretches, causing a world of problems for your home. Our residential plumbing services in Pittsburgh, PA, can help identify what is wrong with your system and what needs to be done to fix your water pipes.
If you are tired of dealing with an endless line of plumbing repair needs, it’s time you find a company that can handle the job quickly and efficiently. Our plumbing contractors will come to your home, identify the issue, and make the necessary repairs so you can sleep soundly without worrying about water issues. Contact us to schedule your next appointment today!