Person using thermal imaging camera to detect potential water leaks in a home setting, with a focus on interior plumbing inspection and maintenance.

How to Find Out If You Have an Underground Water Leak

Professional Tips for Water Line Leak Detection 

Home plumbing systems use a complicated system of pipes to distribute water from the main water line to the home’s plumbing fixtures. Many of the pipes in the home plumbing system can be found underground, beneath the home’s foundation and lawn. The sewer line that connects the drains in the home to the city sewer is also considered part of the home’s underground plumbing. 

Underground water leaks can be difficult to find. As a result, they can be extremely damaging to the property as they are left in disrepair for a long time. Underground water leaks can cause the soil under the home to soften and damage the home’s foundation. A hidden water leak can also drive up the cost of utilities for the home. 

Signs of a Hidden Pipe Leak

Man looking concerned while holding a water bill and using a laptop, illustrating issues related to underground plumbing leaks and rising utility costs.

Hidden underground pipe leaks can be hard to diagnose, but there are some signs for homeowners to look out for. Sometimes an underground pipe leak can cause one patch of grass to grow higher than the rest because of the additional water. 

The water from an underground leak may even form puddles in the yard. Homeowners should look for patches in the lawn that seem to always be taller than the other grass because this could indicate a leak in the underground plumbing. 

Another sign of a hidden pipe leak is the sound of running water coming from the pipes even when none of the plumbing fixtures are running. Due to the leak, one may lose water pressure from the home’s plumbing fixtures, and the water bills may increase. 

Checking the Water Meter May Reveal the Problem

Comparing the amount of water used each month can reveal a hidden leak if there is a sudden increase in usage for no obvious reason. Homeowners can monitor their water usage by analyzing their utility bills.

A fast and easy way for homeowners to check if they have a plumbing leak is to shut off the main water valve for the home and then observe the water meter. The water meter will reveal whether or not water is still running through the pipes. 

Professional Underground Water Pipe Hidden Leak Repair

Professional plumber smiling and giving a thumbs up while holding a wrench, standing in a kitchen with tools in a bag, emphasizing plumbing services and expertise.When in doubt, it is always best to call a professional plumber. Professional plumbing companies have the specialized tools and training to quickly identify underground water leaks and suggest options for repair. One of the methods that professional plumbers use to find underground water leaks in hidden places is to insert a camera into the pipes. The camera can be used to visually find damaged pipes. 

A leak locator is a device that professional plumbers use to find underground leaks. The device listens for gurgling or other sounds that indicate running water within the plumbing system. There are various types of leak locators that professional plumbers use. Plumbers can also charge the pipes with pressurized nitrogen gas, which lets out a hissing sound when it finds the leak.  

Call About Plumbing Inc.

About Plumbing Inc. is proud to serve its community with affordable plumbing services from experienced professional plumbers. This local plumbing company is reliable, professional, and trustworthy. Jefferson County homeowners can rely on About Plumbing Inc.’s up-front pricing and total customer satisfaction. Give them a call today for water line leak repair in Jefferson County, MO!