A water line issue could mean there is a serious problem underground that you can’t see. This can result in an expensive bill. It’s important to spot problems early so you can find a solution.
Here are a few signs there may be an issue with your water line:
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- Water is moving slow: A slow or suddenly reduced flow from faucets and showerheads can indicate a problem with a water line or service pipe. Residents may notice steady low pressure throughout the home or an uneven drop in a single fixture.
- Colored water coming out of faucets: Persistent discolored water — brown, yellow or rust-colored — is a common signal that metal pipes are corroding or that sediment has entered the line. Flushing taps for a few minutes can help determine whether the discoloration clears.
- High water usage: A steadily rising water bill with no change in household use often points to an underground leak. Homeowners should compare recent bills and note any unexplained increases.
- Wet spots in yard: Wet, soggy spots or suddenly lush patches in the yard, especially when surrounding areas are dry, can show where a line is leaking underground. Pooling water near sidewalks, driveways or foundation walls also deserves attention.
- New sounds or cracks: unusual sounds, such as hissing, gurgling or a constant trickle when no fixtures are running, can signal pressure loss or an active leak. Running sounds in walls or under floors at night are especially telling.
Cracks or new settlement in foundation walls, patios or sidewalks can follow soil washout from leaking water lines. Likewise, sinkholes or soft ground are urgent signs that a line has failed or soil has eroded.
Check your water usage
A quick household check of the water meter can help confirm a leak. With all water-using appliances and fixtures off, the meter should not move. Continuous movement usually indicates water flow somewhere in the system.
Call your water company asap. If you live in Houston, call 3-1-1 to determine if the water line issue is something the city will take care of or if you need to call for help.
Take your water bill off autopay
If you notice high water usage you should remove the auto payment while the city looks into the issue. You don’t want a huge charge taken from your bank if you still need to figure out if you owe the bill. If you pay the bill, the city might only offer you a credit if it later determines it was inaccurate.
RELATED: Steps to take the minute you get a high water bill
Sign up for high usage alerts
If you live in Houston, you can get an immediate heads-up that you are using a lot of water. The Consumption Awareness Program offers alerts and notifications via Text, Email or Phone. Once you have surpassed your set threshold, you will receive an alert via Text, Email or Phone informing you of the following:
- Your current gallon consumption
- Dates when this consumption was used
- Your current threshold
- Constant flow detection
Learn more about registering here.