Pipe Leaks: The Heartless Ways Your Plumbing Can Ruin Valentine’s Day

There’s not much to love about pipe leaks. If you’ve been one of the unlucky ones to deal with them before, then you know just how frustrating they can be. Pipe leaks can cause water damage, foundation cracks and other devastating structural damage. Here are all the heartless ways your plumbing can ruin Valentine’s Day, and how you can fix it.

1. High Water Bills

There’s nothing like high bills to kill the mood. If your water bill is higher-than-usual and nothing changed, then it could be due to a leak somewhere in your home.

2. Bad Odors

Do you notice a musty smell? An odor so strong that not even your bouquet of flowers or candles can mask? Musty smells usually indicate there’s mold growing somewhere in your home. Check on all areas of your house that could spring a leak, like your bathroom, kitchen, or laundry room. It’s important you address and fix leaks (and mold) right away.

3. Dripping Sounds

Dripping sounds can be annoying, especially if you’re trying to have a nice conversation over dinner with your loved one. Talk about distracting! Dripping faucets, while they might appear to be harmless, can actually waste thousands of gallons of water a year. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, a leaky faucet that drips at the rate of one drip per second can waste over 3,000 gallons of water a year. Over time the leak can worsen and cause more than just high water bills – it can also cause water damage. Not so harmless after all, huh?

4. Damp Flooring

Are there areas of your floor that are damp or wet? If you didn’t spill something there, then chances are it’s due to a pipe leak. This can cause damage to your floor or carpet, and also cause mold growth and bad odors if not addressed right away.

5. Stained Walls and Ceilings

Even if you notice the smallest stain, you shouldn’t ignore it. It could be your first sign that something is going on behind the surface – such as in the pipes inside you wall! A ceiling could eventually start to sag and a wall could bend if you don’t take action now.

6. Mold and Mildew

Let’s grow mold together is probably not something you want to say to your date this Valentine’s Day – but it could be your reality! If you have a pipe leak, then surely mold and mildew aren’t far behind. Did you know mold only needs 24-48 hours to grow? If you notice any signs of leaks, dampness, or water spills, make sure to take care of it right away.