Plumbing Tips | September 7, 2022

How Do I Tell If I Have A Cracked Pipe?

How Do I Tell If I Have A Cracked Pipe?

The most common indication of a cracked or broken pipe is a water leak. Although, there is more than just one sign of a cracked pipe. Sometimes, you won’t even be able to tell you do have an issue at hand because of where the pipe is located. But, there are other indications you can look for that will let you know if something is out of the ordinary.

Let’s go over the warning signs you should look out for that typically mean you have a cracked pipe. 

Fluctuating Water Pressure 

If your water pressure is constantly fluctuating, this could be a sign that you have a cracked pipe somewhere in your home. If it seems to be really low at times and then super high during other times, this is a significant indicator of this issue. 

Here’s how to test your water pressure at home:

Discolored, Smelly Water

When pipes burst in the ground, it allows things like dirt and other bacteria to get into the water. The same thing happens when a pipe rusts and then cracks. Rust will give the water a brownish tint. Rust also allows a breeding ground for bacteria which can give you serious health issues. 

Mold Problems 

This is a very common indicator of a cracked or burst pipe. Water damage or any moisture anywhere in your home can cause mold to grow. If you see mold, check the area nearby for a leaking pipe. Water or moisture is what causes this. 

A cracked or leaking pipe can create mold in your home within 24-48 hours. Anywhere with water or moisture is a breeding ground for mold.
A cracked or leaking pipe can create mold in your home within 24-48 hours. Anywhere with water or moisture is a breeding ground for mold.

Puddle Under Your Sink

Not only is a puddle under your sink a sign of a cracked or leaking pipe, but any puddle for that matter typically means that you have a cracked pipe. If you notice a puddle or any standing water in an area of your home, it is best to call a plumber immediately before it causes water damage throughout a large area of your home.

If you find standing water anywhere in your home, you will know you have a leaking pipe.
If you find standing water anywhere in your home, you will know you have a leaking pipe.

Dripping Noises in Your Walls

You will know you have a pipe that’s leaking in your wall if you hear dripping noises coming from inside the wall. This is a case that you don’t want to just let it go. This can cause major water damage from the inside of your wall and also a great place for mold to start growing.

Water Marks

This also goes along with hearing dripping noises inside your walls. If you also see water marks on your walls, you know you definitely have a leak of some sort and a broken pipe. The wall can often appear soft or squishy and this can also be a great indicator of a leak inside your walls. 

A cracked pipe inside your walls will often leave huge water marks where the leak is present.
A cracked pipe inside your walls will often leave huge water marks where the leak is present.

High Water Bills

If you have not changed the way you are using water in your home that would be considered a significant change in use and you see that your water bill has skyrocketed, it could be the cause of a cracked pipe. A pipe that is constantly leaking water will increase your bill drastically until it’s fixed. 

Final Thoughts 

In conclusion, there are many obvious signs that will lead you to conclude that you have a leak from a cracked pipe. Some though, not so obvious. If you think that you have a cracked pipe in your home, it’s important to call your plumber and have it assessed immediately.

A lot of the time, issues like this one can cause larger issues including water damage leading to mold growth if not assessed soon enough and taken care of properly. 

Call 1-Tom-Plumber 

Don’t hesitate to contact us here or call us at 1-Tom-Plumber (1-866-758-6237) if you need help with any drain cleaning service, anywhere in your home or business. 1-Tom-Plumber’s certified team of plumbers and drain technicians respond immediately to any emergency plumbing, drain cleaning, or water damage problem. 

We also handle the excavation of underground water lines and sewer main lines. Our immediate-response team is available every day and night of the year, even on holidays.

Related Blogs