Dangers Of Hidden Water Leaks In Your House
August 5, 2021
Water leaks are a common issue that most homeowners face. They are rather prevalent in older buildings. However, unfortunately, water leaks are one of the most ignored plumbing issues even though they can have grave implications to your and your family members’ health.
From causing short-circuiting to providing an adequate growing environment for mold, water leaks can lead to several hazards. Hence, it is advised that you seek professional water leak detection if you see signs of water leaks around your house. There is a chance that what looks like a small ignorable water leak might just be the tip of the iceberg.
Some of the dangers of hidden water leaks in your house are:
Household Water Contamination
If there is a leak in your pipes that carry the drinking water for your household, there is a chance that the water might be contaminated. The leak can make way for several contaminants to enter the water stream.
These leaks cause a sudden drop in the velocity and the pressure in the pipe. This means the water can suck in external water and particles of dirt or other potential contaminants. Even if the water being contaminated is going to the toilet, it is dangerous since the water is used for rinsing your mouth, washing your face, bathing your children, and more. The same water is used to wash your dishes as well.
Mold and Mildew Issues
Mold and Mildew is a serious problem that can develop in areas around a water leak. A damp and humid environment is everything mold and mildew require to thrive. Even a few drops of water can create enough dampness for fungus to grow.
The worst part is, mold grows at a phenomenal rate and can spread to other areas including your HVAC system, internal walls, pipes, furniture, and even clothing. The fungus is extremely damaging to your health as well. It can cause several issues including:
- Stuffy Nose
- Red or Itchy Eyes
- Chronic Cough
- Wheezing
- Shortness of Breath
- Asthma Symptoms
- Development of Asthma
- Chest Tightness
- Fever
- Headaches
If you are exposed to mold for longer periods, you might face severe asthmatic issues and other breathing problems. Kids are more prone to these health hazards.
Fire hazard
One of the most common reasons for a fire hazard is an undetected water leak. Leaks have the potential to grow over time. Hence, when it reaches the areas with electrical wiring it can cause short circuits and shorted wires. This almost always results in electrical fires incurring great damage to your property and in worst-case scenarios, human lives.
High Utility Bills
In addition to health and safety hazards, hidden water leaks can also lead to financial strain. There might be a sudden rise in your water bills. You will be charged for the water that you don’t use. In addition to this, your electricity bills might rise as well since your HVAC system will have to work harder to fight the humid environment of your house.
Structural Damage
Plumbing leak issues greatly undermine the structural integrity of your house. If the pipes that pass through your attic start to leak, they will damage your ceiling. Your house will not be able to endure storms, rains, and heavy wind situations.
Apart from this, the leaks also end up damaging your rafters, wall framing, ceiling joints, wood structures, walls, and more. Ignoring either of these issues can lead to further damage to the structure of your home.
Hence, detecting and dealing with water leaks when they have not yet matured is the best way to save yourself from health hazards as well as from the hassle of getting expensive repairs done around the house.
What Can You Do About These Plumbing Issues?
The best way to deal with most plumbing issues in your house is to call a professional plumbing company. Jack’d Up Plumbing is one of the best plumbers in Calgary. Get in touch with us today.