Slab Leaks

Early Slab Leak Detection

1. Higher water bill
2. Higher gas bill
3. Moist soil surrounding a building/structure
4. Hot floors
5. Hot or lukewarm water out of cold side of faucets or in the toilet
6. Sound of running water with no fixture(s) actually on
7. Room is humid for no apparent reason
8. Moisture or condensation found under furniture, boxes, throw rugs
9. Mildew smell
10. Water Heater or Boiler constantly running or cycling

What causes slab leaks and how to prevent them!
1. Excessive incoming water pressure: Uniform Plumbing Codes deem water pressure above 80psi to be considered excessive. However, most plumbing part manufacturers recommend 50psi as the optimum pressure rating for long lasting faucets, water heaters, and toilets. Frequently monitor the incoming pressure by testing with a inexpensive ($10.00 local hardware store) pressure gauge http://www.automationdirect.com/adc/Overview/Catalog/Sensors_-z-_Encoders/Pressure_Sensors_-a-_Pressure_Gauges/Dial_Pressure_Gauges_%281.5,_2.0,_2.5_Inch_Dials%29?source=google&keyword=%2Bpressure%20gauges&type=search&gclid=CKXkutTek64CFeUaQgodS3EDLg. Should the pressure be over 75psi consider the installation of a pressure regulator and/or adjusting an existing pressure regulator down.http://www.zurn.com/pages/catalog.asp?ProductGroupID=86&OperationID=11

2. Thermal Expansion:

General Information - What is Thermal Expansion?

When water is heated it expands. For example, water heated from 90°F to a thermostat setting of 140°F in a 40 gallon hot water heater will expand by almost one-half gallon. This is because when water is heated, its density decreases and its volume expands (see below). Since water is not compressible, the extra volume created by expansion must go someplace. During no-flow periods in a system, pressure reducing valves, backflow preventers, and other one-way valves are closed, thus eliminating a path for expanded water to flow back to the system supply. Hence, system pressure increases. http://www.watts.com/pages/learnAbout/thermalExpansion.asp?catId=64 How to curb Thermal Expansion: with the installation of a thermal expansion tank or other authorized device.
3. High PH levels in the water supply:
1.Copper pitting corrosion remains poorly understood despite a number of reports released in recent years. There have been cases of copper pitting problems in waters having high pH, low alkalinity, and significant levels of sulfate and chloride http://www.epa.gov/nrmrl/wswrd/cr/corr_res_copper_ai2.html To correct add a water softener and/or water conditioning device.


Don't let the small leaks become costly repairs.
1. Leaky toilets http://www.epa.gov/WaterSense/pubs/fixleak.html
2. Leaks under sinks
3. Shower Valve leaks
4. Improper caulking around fixtures/faucets http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/caulking-your-tub-and-shower.html
5. Leaks at toilet base http://www.doityourself.com/stry/h2replacetoilet

All of these minor types of leaks can lead to very unpleasant experiences in the form of mold, mildew, and costly restoration repairs due to water damage. Its wise to perform monthly inspections of all visible plumbing. And, to correct even the smallest of leaks before it becomes a big one (left alone they all do).