How to Identify Water Leaks in the Plumbing

How to Find and Fix Water Leaks

Water leaks are a common, frustrating problem that most homeowners will have to deal with at some point. They waste tons of water, drive up water bills, and can also do significant damage to a home by ruining floors and walls and spurring mold growth. Dealing with these pesky plumbing problems takes some knowledge and attention. This article aims to help homeowners better notice the presence of water leaks in their homes.

Watch for High Water Bills

Woman surprised while reviewing high water bill paperwork at kitchen table, emphasizing the impact of water leaks on household expenses.Homeowners are responsible for paying for lost water and repairing leaks at any point after the water meter, which can lead to high water bills and headaches. Water leaks can occur at any point in the system, so many can stay hidden for quite a while. The best way to spot leaks like this is to monitor the water bill. 

Water meters are sensitive devices that track water usage in the home. When leaks start to occur in the system, the bill can show a dramatic increase over the course of a month. By tracking water bills, homeowners can spot bill increases more quickly and call for a leak detection service to fix the costly leak. 

Other Signs of Leaks

The unmistakable signs of water leaks include standing water or hissing noises. However, since all water leaks aren’t obvious, homeowners must know the subtle signs to address them promptly. Since water contributes to humidity, most signs of hidden water leaks revolve around this principle. 

For example, when water leaks from pipes, it can raise the humidity in the home, causing discomfort. If the HVAC cannot control the humidity in the home, a plumbing leak may be to blame. Likewise, excess moisture in the home can cause flooring to buckle and walls to become wet and moldy. When these signs are evident, plumbers should be called for leak detection and repair. 

Use the Water Meter to Your Advantage

Water meter in a utility box, showing dials for measuring water flow, relevant for detecting plumbing leaks and humidity issues in homes.When plumbers are called to look for a plumbing leak, they often use the water meter to verify the presence of a leak. Luckily for homeowners, this test is easy and can be used by anyone anytime they suspect a water leak. 

Before performing this test, it is best to wait until everyone is out of the house. For accuracy, no water usage is allowed during the testing period. Turn off all washers, dishwashers, and plumbing fixtures so the system is completely on standby. Next, go to the water meter. 

This device is usually underground in a special box that allows access from the surface. Open the box and look for the meter. The meter will have sensitive dials that sense the water flow through the piping. If these dials are moving despite no water usage inside the home, a leak is present, and plumbers must be called to investigate further. 

More of About Plumbing Inc.

About Plumbing Inc. offers reliable service from trustworthy technicians. Using the latest technology, their teams handle problems from drain and sewer issues to water leak repairs. They also offer straightforward pricing and top-notch service performed by experienced technicians. Call today for reliable plumbing service in Jefferson County, MO.