Tips to Help Find and Fix Water Leaks
Water leaks might seem like a minor nuisance, but they can quickly escalate into costly nightmares. Whether it's a subtle drip under the sink or a hidden pipe leak within the walls, these silent culprits can waste thousands of gallons of water and lead to devastating issues like mold growth and water damage.
The average household loses nearly 10,000 gallons of water each year due to leaks, so it’s important to know how to catch them as soon as possible so a plumber can be called for water leak repair. This guide will share some methods to detect water leaks before they become major headaches, helping homeowners protect their homes and save money.
High Water Bills
A sudden spike in the water bill is often one of the most reliable indicators of a hidden water leak in a home. It's likely a leak when water usage appears significantly higher than usual despite maintaining regular consumption habits. Even a seemingly minor leak, such as a dripping faucet or running toilet, can waste hundreds of gallons of water per month, leading to unnecessarily inflated water bills.
Addressing these leaks fast is important to save money on water costs and prevent water damage and potential structural damage to the home that results in much costlier repairs. Professional plumbers recommend monitoring water bills closely, as catching and repairing leaks early can save homeowners a lot of money.
Other Signs of a Leak
Water leaks can manifest through various telltale signs that homeowners should watch for. Beyond unexpectedly high water bills, common indicators include the sound of dripping or running water when no fixtures are in use, damp, damaged, or discolored walls, floors, or ceilings, musty odors, mold growth, and decreased water pressure from fixtures.
Outdoors, homeowners should watch for unexplained puddles or unusually lush patches of grass in the yard, as they may indicate underground water leaks. Water damage from a leak can also cause visible cracks or damage to the home's foundation or outdoor walls.
Use the Water Meter
A water meter is one of the most reliable tools for detecting hidden leaks in a home's plumbing system. To conduct a meter test, first ensure that no water is being used inside or outside the home, so turn off all fixtures, water-using appliances, and irrigation systems. Then, locate the water meter (typically near the street or property line) and record the exact reading, including any decimal points. Wait around two hours without using any water, then check the meter again. If the reading has changed despite no water usage, there is likely a leak somewhere in the system.
Many modern water meters feature a small triangle or diamond-shaped flow indicator that rotates when water passes through the meter. This indicator can detect even minimal water movement, making it especially useful for identifying water leaks. If this indicator moves while all water sources are off, it's also a sign of a leak requiring immediate attention.
About Zing Plumbing
Zing Plumbing is a licensed, bonded, and insured plumbing company that serves the Tucson area. They offer flat-rate pricing and a satisfaction guarantee. Call them for water leak detection and repair services in Tucson, AZ.
