How Can Homeowners Identify Water Leaks Around the House?

How to Spot Leaks Before They Waste a Ton of Money

Leaks are one of the most common plumbing problems because they have so many opportunities to form. The plumbing in every home is made up of many stretches of pipes and joints, along with many plumbing fixtures and appliances, and they can all fall victim to leaks. 

Whether the leaks are caused by wear and tear or corrosion, water leaks in the home can cause costly water damage and high water costs, so it makes sense to try and catch them as soon as possible so a plumber can be called for leak detection and repair. Here is a quick guide explaining several ways for homeowners to spot leaks before they waste more money. 

Signs of Water Leaks 

Water leaks can occur out of sight, meaning they may be hidden behind walls or beneath the floor. This can make spotting them difficult if homeowners don’t know what to look for. Here are some common signs that can signal a leak and indicate to call for leak repair:  

• Dripping or running water sounds when water isn’t being used
• Reduced water pressure
• Water stains on walls, floors, or ceilings
• Water damaged floors
• Sagging or water-damaged ceilings
• Mold growth or a musty smell 

Watch Out for High Water Bills

An unusually high water bill could also be the first sign of a hidden leak homeowners notice. It can indicate a leak that, while not immediately visible, is steadily wasting water and driving up costs. Ignoring such a signal can not only result in more excessive water bills but can also lead to more severe damage over time, including structural issues that could be far costlier to repair. 

Addressing a suspected water leak promptly not only helps conserve water but also helps prevent additional water damage to the home, ensuring that small leaks don't escalate into major crises throughout the system, like water damage, which may even affect the structural integrity of the home. So, any time a large spike in water costs is seen, it should tip off homeowners that they need leak detection. 

Use the Water Meter to Test for Leaks 

Monitoring the water meter is a great way to test for hidden leaks if a leak is suspected since it can help homeowners more accurately determine if a leak is present in the home. First, ensure all water-using fixtures and devices are turned off in the home. This includes appliances that use water and sprinkler systems. 

Next, homeowners should find their water meter and check if it has a leak indicator dial, which is often triangular-shaped. If it is moving and rotating when no water is being used, it indicates a leak. But a leak can still be tested for if the meter doesn’t have this. Record the reading on the water meter, then wait an hour or two without using any water. If the reading has changed after this time, there’s likely a leak and a plumber should be called to locate and fix it. 

About West Plumbing LLC

West Plumbing LLC has been serving Chandler, AZ, and the surrounding areas since 2014. They provide upfront, flat-rate pricing, on-time service, and knowledgeable technicians. Call them today for water leak detection and repair services in Chandler, AZ. 

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