How To Detect Hidden Water Leaks?
Water leaks can result in severe damages, especially if you don’t notice them for long.
If you doubt there is a water escape somewhere in the house, there are some ways to find it.
Follow them to stop any serious damage.
5 Ways to Detect Hidden Water Leaks
1. Check the water meter.
If you feel that there is a water leak in your house, check the water meter for confirmation. You can find this meter where the water lines enter your home, generally on the residence’s back or side. Sometimes if also located beneath a maintenance hole in the street. Once you find it, follow the given steps.
- Shut all the water taps, faucets, and appliances. Make sure the dishwasher, washing machine or any other water using appliance is not operational.
- Check the meter and note down its readings. Return after 60 minutes and recheck the numbers. If you notice any change, the water is leaking.
- The leak could be underground if you cannot see it anywhere around the water pipes. If you cannot find the leak, then it’s better to call an expert.
Also read: Why is Leak Detection Important?
2. Inspect your water bill
Review the statements from the last six months to see a significant boost in water consumption. If the monthly water bill is constantly on the rise, but your water usage is not increased, there are chances of leakage. If the leakage is underground, then calling a professional is better.
3. Test your toilet
Your washroom accounts for around 30 percent of water usage in your house. So, you should check the toilet to make sure it’s not leaking. Add a few drops of food coloring in the toilet’s water tank and wait for around 10 minutes. If the color shows in your toilet’s bowl, then it’s allowing the water to escape without even pressing the flush.
4. Check The Outdoor Water Usage
Don’t think that water leaks can only occur inside your house. Such incidents are common outside your residence as well. So, it’s better to check all the outdoor spigots using a garden hose. If the water escapes through any of the connections, then change the rubber gasket of the hose.
If you own an irrigation system, then call an expert to check it once every year. Do not avoid any leaks, as it could be wasting up to 6, 500-gallons water per month.
5. Inspect The Plumbing System Regularly
Check the areas under your sinks and basins. Take a look behind the kitchen cabinets for mold and any unwanted smells. Early detection of water escapes can save you from a lot of repair expenses. If you find anything suspicious, consult a professional who can fix it immediately.
Check out: What is a Leak Detection System & How Does it Works?
Be more attentive if the house is more than 25 years old. After working for these many years, your plumbing system might be thin and susceptible to leaks.
Apart from the pipes, check all the appliances, including your water heater, washing machine, pumps, and all the connections, to ensure no signs of water escapes.
Discoloration or oxidation on valves or hoses is a clear indication of minor leaks.
Contact a professional instantly if you notice a leak in your plumbing system. Don’t wait. Otherwise, the damages will increase, and you will regret it later.
Also read: 3 Most Common Causes of Water Leaks in House
Bottom Line
Now you know several ways to find hidden water leaks. Early detection of leak points means you don’t have to invest a high amount in repairs.
So, be prepared for such incidents before they create chaos. Monitor your water meter, toilet, faucets, and all other connections to make sure everything is working without any water leakages.
