5 Ways to Detect Water Leaks
Plumbing leaks can lead to high water bills, besides causing other costly damages. Water leaks are a common problem in many homes. Corrosive substances like rust eat your pipes over time, creating spaces that can cause water to leak.
Seal damages, high water pressure, untreated drain clogs, and drastic temperature change are other factors that lead to plumbing leaks.
Hidden leaks are a headache to any homeowner, and they may need a seasoned plumbing contractor in Thousand Palms for instance, to detect. Water issues need quick intervention to avoid further damage as they can compromise the structural integrity in extreme cases. Below are ways to detect water leaks quickly.
Monitor the Water Bill
In most homes, the water meter is located near the line that supplies water into the house. The meter is often at the back or side of the house. The location of meters is common in areas that do not experience very low temperatures. Other developers may install the meter beneath a manhole-type of cover near the street.
Once you locate the meter, monitor it for some time. Turn off all your water faucets and ensure that appliances like the dishwasher and washing machine are not running. Check the meter readings, and do it again after an hour or two. If you notice the numbers have changed, then there is a leak.
Turn the shut-off valve on the water main supply valve to determine if the leak is outdoors. You can find it either in the basement or a utility that hosts the pipe entering the home. Again, take the meter reading and repeat the process after an hour. If the numbers changed, the possible leak could be the buried line running to your house.
Watch the Water Bill
After a while, you can estimate your water bills as they are pretty predictable. If all factors are constant in your home, you suddenly receive unexpectedly high monthly water bills; check out for possible leaks.
While small leaks may appear insignificant, a faucet with a steady drip can waste up to 10,000 water gallons per year. Keeping an eye on your water bills is a proactive and intelligent practice.
Check Fixtures and Appliances
Puddles around the bases of toilets, tubs, and showers or under the washing machine, dishwashers, and water heater are clear leakage signs. Also, check out the cabinets under the laundry, kitchen, and bathroom sinks for any wet patches for any wetness. If you detect any signs of leakage, call a plumber to fix it and avoid more damage.
Use the Toilet Dye Test
Toilets are a familiar spot for interior leakage. After some time toilet flappers become brittle and can allow water into the bowl. Put a few drops of food color in the tank of all toilets in the house. Check after five minutes. If color appears in the bowl, that is a sign of leakage.
Other Leakage Clues
Yellowish or brownish water stains on walls and ceilings indicate a leakage behind the drywall. When there is a leakage, the wallpaper no longer adheres tightly, and the paint is wet. You may notice bulging wallpaper or bubbling paint.
Sometimes, water traveling along the wall stud may cause a dripping sound. This sound gives you a clear clue about the leak’s possible location. Take note of a musty smell, as persistent leaks provide a perfect environment for mold growth.
It is crucial to note that not all leaks are plumbing related. Check if the water leak is from the roof or through a window to engage the right professional. Whatever the case, address any leaks promptly to reduce water damage risk.
