As winter thaws into spring, temperature fluctuations can pose unique challenges to your home’s plumbing. A thorough post-winter leak check could prevent minor plumbing issues from becoming costly disasters.

Why Winter Creates Certain Plumbing Vulnerabilities

The freeze-thaw cycle during the winter months can put significant stress on your plumbing system. When water freezes, it expands by just over 9%. The increased volume inside the pipes can create tremendous pressure, which may then crack the pipe walls or weaken the connections.

The soil around the home also shifts as the moisture inside it freezes and thaws. This seasonal movement can damage underground pipes, creating leaks that become apparent just as spring arrives and the water flows freely again. A professional winter leak check can often save the day.

Top Signs of Winter Damage Leaks

Do you know how to recognize plumbing leak signs? It could save you thousands! Look for the following:

• Unexplained increases in your water bill.
• Reduced water pressure throughout your home.
• Damp spots on walls, ceilings, or floors – especially in basements.
• Unusual sounds like running water when appliances are off.
• Warm spots on floors.
• Musty odors or visible mold growth.
• New foundation cracks.

A thorough winter leak check will also look for water pooling around your home’s exterior.

A Plumber’s Tips for Finding Hidden Water Leaks

Your home leak inspection relies on visual checks and these simple tests:

The Water Meter Test

Turn off all water. Check your meter. Wait two hours without using water, and check the meter again to see if there was any movement.

The Toilet Check

Add food coloring to the tank. Wait 30 minutes without flushing. Color in the bowl means you have a toilet leak.

The Exterior Inspection

Attach a hose to your outdoor faucets and run the water. Look for leaks at connections and damp ground around your foundation.

The Appliance Examination 

Look for moisture or water stains around dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters. Connection points and valves are weak spots.

The Visual Pipe Check 

Examine exposed pipes in basements and under sinks. Is there corrosion, discoloration, or moisture? Check ceilings below bathrooms, too.

The Pressure Test 

Does water pressure drop significantly when using multiple fixtures? You might have a supply line leak after winter ground shifts.

One Final Leak Detection Test

Sometimes, the simplest winter leak check is to listen carefully with your own two ears. When your home is quiet, do you hear running or dripping water?

Trust Mullen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling for Your Winter Plumbing Needs

DIY inspections can catch obvious issues. However, experienced plumbing technicians use specialized acoustic equipment and infrared cameras for thorough water leak detection that will find hidden leaks before they cause further damage.

Did your plumbing survive this winter unscathed? If you’d like to be sure, contact Mullen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling at (304) 744-3221 for a comprehensive winter leak check in South Charleston or the surrounding areas!