4 signs of problems in the water supply line

A clean and efficient water system is a must in your home, no one wants to see dirty water coming out of the faucet or waste money on poor quality pipes. You can avoid this major problem by recognizing the signs of a worsening problem:

• High water bill

Has your water bill increased while your usage rate is the same and has not exceeded your consumption rate last month? If you have an unexplained high water bill, you probably have a leak — and it might be a leak that isn't easy to see, either.

• External leaks

Leaks may also occur outside. Check damp areas in the yard, especially areas of unusually lush grass and sunken spots in the ground. This may be an indication of a broken or punctured water pipe. Don't neglect sidewalks or driveways either, as wet sidewalks could be the result of a broken sprinkler pipe.

• Low water pressure

A low reading on the pressure gauge may indicate a leak in the pipes. Check the reading on the pressure tank when not using water if you have a well. There may be a leak between the well and the house if the pressure drops, or the problem may lie in the well pump itself.

It may be difficult to determine the source of the problem in municipal water if the water pressure is low. If you do not find a leak even though the water pressure is low, contact your service provider to determine the cause of this low pressure.

• Sand and dirt in the water

Are there sand, dirt or sediments in the water? This is an indication of a broken water pipe, as metals and solids in the pipes can clog the water supply lines, destroy heaters and cause the entire system to fail.

If you encounter one of these problems or suspect a problem with your water, call your service provider or plumber, and ask your neighbors if they are experiencing the same problem, as the problem may be system-wide.