The plumbing in your home is typically connected to the city’s water supply at the water meter. The water meter is typically located in the park strip or yard. You are responsible for the underground pipe that goes to your home from the meter.
Corrosion and other damage can cause the pipe to leak. If the leak is between the meter and the home you are responsible for the damage that may occur. If your water bill is higher than normal let us know. We can help determine what the problem is. We can help determine if the leak is from irrigation, a leak in your home, or a leak in the main water line.
To help avoid major damage it is important to occasionally check on the condition of your main line. Because the line is underground, the most practical way to check it is by clocking the meter. Also, because it is underground, a broken or cracked pipe can leak for months, or even years, before you have any idea that there is a problem. Although monitoring your monthly water bill will help you determine whether or not your pipes need to be checked.
Whether you need a professional to assess the current status of your line or to repair/replace the water line our experts are here to help.
How often should I have my water main checked?
To lessen the chance of having an emergency water line repair, you will want to have your water line checked. If you have moved then you may want to get your new home inspected by a licensed plumber to determine a baseline. If your home is older you may want to get it checked yearly. Remember, we’re talking about the water main here. You may have replaced the plumbing inside your home but unless your main has been replaced it may still have an unexpected leak.
We want to catch the leaks before they get out of control and cause major damage. As we check your line we can help you determine how often it should be inspected or if it should be replaced.
What are signs of a leaky water main?
While you can’t see the water main there are things that you can watch out for that can help you determine whether or not you have a major problem. An increased water use showing in your water bill could be a sign of a major leak.
If the leak is small then it will be much more difficult to notice. It’s important to monitor your water usage so that you can catch a leak early on.
Other signs are wet sections in your yard, water bubbling up to the surface, or sinking areas or sinkholes on your property. Water from the leak may or may not eventually find its way to the surface.
Leaks in your water main can also go down into the water table and never surface, causing cavitation under ground. If you look inside the water meter and the meter is filled with water you may have high ground water or you may have a leak. Inside, knowing the location of your water main is important. You’ll need to know where the main can be turned off in case of an emergency. You can also check the area to make sure water isn’t leaking through the foundation. There are automatic and remote devices that can be used to turn off the main from inside your home. Water alarms can also be used to alert you before damage occurs. Sometimes you have leaks and notice water where there shouldn’t be, call us immediately.
If you want water detecting devices in your home we can also provide those.
If you don’t want to deal with a cracked or broken water main by yourself, you’ll want the help of a licensed plumber who has specific experience. As previously stated, a cracked or broken water main can cause serious damage to your property, not to mention high water bills. The damage isn’t always caused by water flooding into your home. Water can also cause sinkholes or erosion in your yard. You don’t want that. Get your water main checked as needed to help avoid costly damage.
Call us at (801) 477-5818 or fill out the form on this page to have your water main inspected or repaired.