Water leaks may start small, but they can lead to major problems – damaged drywall, mold growth, warped flooring, and skyrocketing water bills. In San Diego homes, aging pipes, shifting foundations, and hard water buildup are all common culprits.
If you’ve noticed signs of a water leak, don’t wait. Fast, professional repair can prevent extensive (and expensive) damage. Here’s what you need to know.
1. Common Signs of a Hidden Water Leak
Not all leaks are obvious. In fact, some of the most damaging ones are completely hidden behind walls, under slabs, or in ceilings. Watch for:
- Unexplained spikes in your water bill
- Musty smells or mold growth
- Peeling paint or bubbling drywall
- Warm spots on the floor (a sign of a slab leak)
- Constantly running water meter, even when no water is being used
If you’ve noticed any of these red flags, it’s time to call for a professional leak detection service.
2. Slab Leaks Are a Common Problem in San Diego
Many San Diego homes – especially those built before the 1980s – have copper water lines running beneath the concrete foundation (also known as a slab). Over time, these pipes can:
- Corrode from hard water or soil acidity
- Develop pinhole leaks from wear or pressure
- Crack due to seismic activity or soil shifting
A slab leak can go undetected for weeks or months, slowly damaging your foundation and flooring. Early detection is key to avoiding structural damage.
3. Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Small Leak
Even a slow drip can waste hundreds of gallons of water a month and promote mold growth in just days. Beyond the damage to your home, untreated leaks can:
- Compromise air quality
- Damage electrical systems
- Lead to costly repairs or insurance claims
The sooner a leak is found and repaired, the more you save in the long run.
4. How Leak Detection Works
At Point Loma Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Air, we use non-invasive tools to pinpoint the source of a leak without tearing apart your walls or floors. Depending on the location and severity, we may use:
- Acoustic listening devices
- Thermal imaging cameras
- Moisture sensors
- Video camera pipe inspections
Once we locate the leak, we’ll walk you through your repair options – whether it’s a quick pipe patch or rerouting plumbing to avoid future issues.
5. Prevent Future Leaks with Proactive Plumbing Upgrades
Want to avoid dealing with leaks again? Preventative upgrades can give you peace of mind. Ask us about:
- Whole-home repiping for older or corroded pipes
- Pressure regulation to prevent pipe stress
- Water softeners to reduce corrosion from San Diego’s hard water
- Smart leak detection systems with automatic shutoff features
These proactive solutions protect your plumbing, your home, and your wallet.
Need Fast, Reliable Water Leak Repair in San Diego?
At Point Loma Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Air, we offer same-day service, accurate leak detection, and expert plumbing repairs – all handled by licensed local professionals.
- Hidden leak detection
- Slab leak repair
- Emergency plumbing service
- Water line repairs and repiping