Are you aware of the subtle signs that could mean a water leak is behind your walls or under your floors? Detecting a water leak early can help you save money from more extensive repairs in the future. Here are 10 different ways to detect water leaks in your home:
1. Look for visible and subtle signs of water damage
These include:
- Yellow, brown, or dark water stains on walls, floors, or ceiling
- Water drips, wet walls, peeling paint, and bubbling wallpaper
- Mold and mildew in bathrooms
- Musty odors related to mold or mildew
If you see visible signs of water damage, that is enough evidence to indicate a water leak in your home. Don’t wait – give us a call today at 888-243-4663.
2. Check your water meter
Step 1: Turn off all water. This includes washer, dishwasher, faucets, and toilets.
Step 2: Locate your water meter and see if it is still running. You might need to wait up to two hours for a more accurate reading.
If the meter continues to change with all the water off, this could indicate a leak. If this is something you encounter, schedule a service call with a professional plumber today.
3. Check for running water
Running water can be heard through walls or floors. Listen for hissing or running water noises, especially when no water is in use.
4. Keep an eye on your water bill
Since some pipes are underground, you may never be able to see or hear the signs to help you detect a water leak. In this case, compare your water bill from previous months to see if there are any major changes. If you notice a significant increase in your water bill, it could be a sign that there is a leak in your water line.
5. Use food coloring to detect water leaks from your toilet
Toilet leaks can waste a significant amount of water. Follow these steps to run your test.
Step 1: Put drops of food coloring into the toilet tank. Dark colors work best for this step.
Step 2: Set a timer for 30 minutes. Do not flush.
Step 3: After 30 minutes, check to see if your toilet bowl changes color. If yes, then you have a water leak.
In this case, an old flapper could be the reason for the water leak. A toilet flapper seals the opening between the tank and the toilet bowl. If you are unsure about which flapper to buy, remove the old flapper and take it to the hardware store for more guidance.
6. Check water pressure
Use these steps to check your water pressure. If your pressure is below 30 psi, this might indicate a water leak. You can purchase a water pressure gauge from a hardware store.
Step 1: Turn off all water-using appliances. This includes all faucets, showerheads, dishwasher, and washer.
Step 2: Connect the pressure gauge to an outside faucet.
Step 3: Open the faucet and look at the gauge to read the pressure. Any reading between 45 and 80 psi (pounds per square inch) is considered normal.
7. Inspect plumbing features
Inspect your faucets and showerheads for any leaks. If you do detect water leaks and you are unsure how to fix them, schedule a plumbing service call today with Constellation Home. Read more about our plumbing repairs and services here.
8. Check indoor water usage
The average at-home water use is 80-100 gallons per person daily. If you noticed that you water bill is showing above average usage rates, but your water use habits have not changed, this could indicate a water leak.
9. Check outdoor water usage
Every home has either a sewer line or a septic line. A septic line treats your wastewater on site and a sewer line takes your wastewater to a treatment plant. Since all the pipes are underground, it is difficult to determine if you have a water leak. You want to look for wet spots in the grass, such as unusual water pooling when it has not rained recently. If you are unsure, contact us at 888-243-4663 or reach us online and one of our certified plumbers can help you out.
10. Consider professional help
Do not let water leaks damage your house and drive-up utility bills. Contact Constellation Home today and we will send out a professional to assist you. From stopping a leak or drain cleaning, to faucets repairs and water heater installations – our certified plumbers will get the job done. We are available 24/7 for emergency service.
