What are sub utility leaks and do I have one?
Do you have a sub utility leak in Lehigh valley?
Underground pipes, whether private or public that carry gas, sewage, water and more are considered Sub (subterranean) utility lines. It’s always best to have these lines located before doing any kind of construction or digging on your property to avoid damage to them or yourself.
Some signs of underground water leaks inside your home are:
- Odors such as mold or sewage
- Rusty or dirty water
- Water hissing, gurgling and/or splashing noises
- Water pressure decrease when using plumbing appliances such as sinks and showers
- Increasing water loving insects in your home
- A steady Increase in your water bill without any other reason
Some signs of underground water leaks outside your home are:
- Potholes or sinkholes
- Puddles of water around sprinkler heads or spurting water
- Wet spots in the lawn
- Some areas of your lawn are greener than others
- Paved concrete slabs such as driveways cracking or breaking
- Sewage odors
- A steady Increase in your water bill without any other reason
How can I check to see if and where I might have a main water line leak.
- Turn off all running faucets inside and outside your home
- Find your water meter
- Read the water meter - If your meter is the old-fashioned kind (analog) look for a red triangle dial or silver wheel. If either of them is moving, you probably have a leak. The newer meters (digital) have flow screens. You may need to shine a light on it. If the number is flashing above zero, you probably have a leak.
Is my leak inside or outside my home?
Shut off your water at the main shutoff.
Go to the water meter. If the meter stops moving, then the leak is inside your home. If the meter keeps moving, then this indicates the leak is outside between the house and meter.
Is the leak in my sewer line?
Get some dye, food or clothing dye will work just fine.
Dump several ounces down the toilet and flush 4 - 5times
After 30 – 60 minutes, go outside and look where you suspect there may be a leak. If there is a pool of water perhaps where the grass is greener and the colored water shows up, you have a sewer line leak.
If you suspect a leaky Sub Utility Line, call in a professional to have it checked. Ignoring it could lead to significant water damage.
