When it comes to your home’s plumbing system, leaks and pests go hand and hand. Water intrusion creates the ideal environment for a host of critters ranging from subterranean termites to cockroaches and mice. A plumbing leak is an open invitation for insects and rodents to take up residence in your San Marcos, Texas, home. Once established, pests can cause structural damage, destroy treasured belongings, and even threaten the health of your family. Here’s what you need to know about fixing leaks to keep troublesome pests out.
Water Attracts Cockroaches
Whether caused by a pinpoint leak or a burst pipe, plumbing leaks are a leading cause of cockroach infestations. While some of the 55 species of cockroaches in the United States can live for weeks without food, they can’t survive more than a few days without water. A common allergen and asthma trigger, cockroaches, have been linked to disease outbreaks too. To protect your family’s health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests limiting access to water by fixing leaks in plumbing pipes, drains, and sink traps promptly.
Undetected Leaks
In situations where plumbing leaks aren’t always apparent, an invasion of insects or rodents can be the first sign of water intrusion. A slow leaking pipe can soften the wood in your home’s walls, creating an attractive environment for everything from wood-chewing termites to gnawing rodents like rats and mice. Rodent-associated diseases from plague to typhus are just some of the reasons even a small leak should be repaired as soon as possible. These simple leak-detecting strategies can help you to identify a problem:
- Compare monthly water bills to determine if there’s an unexpected increase in water usage.
- Check to see if your water meter readings change when you’re not using any water.
- Look for signs of rust and loose fittings around drains, valves, and fixtures, which indicate seals aren’t watertight.
- Schedule AC maintenance service to ensure that condensate pans and drainage lines are operating properly.
Plumbing Leak Solutions
A wealth of new technologies makes it possible for the qualified plumbers at Woods Comfort Systems to locate and repair plumbing leaks with minimal disruption to your home in Central Texas. To learn more about leak repair, check out our plumbing services or call (512) 253-8927 to speak with one of our experts.
Image provided by Shutterstock
