For better or worse, homeowners tend to check for water leaks only when they see visible signs of a problem. We turn on the faucet and check for dripping, scan under the sink for puddles, look in the toilet tank for leaks, and so on. However, many water leaks are hidden from view, and by the time they are discovered, they have often caused significant damage. Here are seven easy ways to find hidden water leaks in your home before they cause serious problems.
Check Your Water Bill
If you see a sudden spike in your water usage, it could be an indication of a hidden leak. Compare your current bill to past bills and look for any unusual increases. If your water consumption has not increased and you can’t find any explanation, it’s time to start checking for leaks. Leaks are often hidden and can go undetected, but a professional plumber will be able to quickly identify the problem and make the necessary repairs.
Check Your Water Meter
If you suspect a leak but don’t see any evidence of one, your water meter may be able to tell you if there is a problem.
- Turn off all the water in your home and then check the meter.
- If it is still running, there is a good chance you have a hidden leak somewhere.
- If the water meter does not appear to be running, wait for two hours and then check it again. If the meter has moved, there is probably a shower water leak.
Look for Water Stains
Water stains on walls, ceilings, or floors can be a sign of a hidden water leak. Check all the rooms in your home, including the attic and basement, for any signs of water damage. If you can’t find the meter or don’t know how to read it, contact your water provider, and they will be able to help you out.
Remember that you are responsible for any leak if it is under your house or in your yard. So, don’t delay getting it fixed if you see any evidence of a leak.
Review Your Water Usage
It is a good idea to review your water usage periodically. This will help you to identify any potential problems early on and avoid costly repairs. The best way to do this is to keep a record of your water consumption over time. You can use a simple spreadsheet or even just a notebook to track your usage.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that an average family of four should use no more than 12,000 gallons of water per month. If you are using more than this, it could be an indication of a hidden leak. You’ll find an online form here that you can use to estimate your daily water usage.
Try The Toilet Dye Test
Toilets are responsible for about 30% of your total water usage, so it’s important to check them regularly for leaks. The easiest way to do this is with a dye test. Simply drop a couple of drops of food coloring into the toilet tank and wait about 10 minutes. If the color disappears in the bowl, you have a leak. It means that even when you don’t flush the toilet, water is still being wasted.
A leaking toilet can waste hundreds of gallons of water per day, so it’s important to get it fixed as soon as possible. You may be able to fix the problem yourself by tightening the bolts that secure the tank to the bowl. If this doesn’t work, you’ll need to call a plumber to get the job done.
Check Your Outdoor Faucet For Leaks
Remember to check the outside of your home for leaks as well. A leaking outdoor faucet can waste a lot of water. To inspect outside spigots, get a garden hose and attach it to the faucet. Then, turn on the water and check for any leaks. If there is a leak, you’ll need to replace the rubber hose gasket.
If you have irrigation systems, check them also. A small leak in your irrigation system can cause you to pay for up to 6,300 gallons of water monthly. That is why a professional plumber should check them yearly for leaks.
Listen For Running Water
If you hear running water when all the faucets and appliances in your home are turned off, it’s a good sign that you have a leak somewhere. Check all the fixtures in your home and make sure they are turned off properly. If you still hear the water running, it’s time to call a plumber.
These are just a few of the ways you can find hidden water leaks in your home. By being proactive and checking for leaks regularly, you can avoid costly repairs and save money on your water bill. If you detect a leak, contact a professional plumber immediately. The earlier you fix the problem, the less damage there will be.
Contact Acme Plumbing For All Your Water Leak Detection And Repair
If you have any questions or need help finding a leak, contact Acme Plumbing today. Our team of experts is always happy to help. We have the experience and knowledge to quickly find and repair any water leaks in your home. Give us a call today at (919) 688-1348!
