Did you know that an average household with a water leak will waste nearly 10,000 gallons of water annually?
As well as wasting water and costing you money, an undetected leak can cause significant damage to your home. If you don’t know how to detect a water leak, you can take some simple steps to help you decide when to call a plumber.
Continue reading for five tips for finding a water leak.
1. Check Your Water Meter
Begin by taking a look at your water meter. It’s the best place to start if you think you have a water leak in your home.
Ensure all the water faucets in your house are off, not forgetting the dishwasher and the washing machine. Check the water meter and note down the number. Wait one hour and check the water meter again. If the number has changed, you have a leak somewhere in your home.
2. Take a Closer Look at Your Bill
Comparing your recent water bills can give you a good idea about any potential leak. The bill should remain in a similar range, and any significant unexplained increase is a strong clue to a water leak.
You can also take a closer look at your water usage. Each person should account for approximately 3000 gallons of water each month in a household.
Call in a professional leak detection service if you think you have a water leak but don’t know where it may be.
3. Investigate the Usual Suspects
If the numbers point to a water leak, take a closer look at appliances and fixtures. Check the cabinets under all your sinks and make sure they’re dry. And search for puddles at the bases of toilets, showers, dishwashers, washing machines, and the water heater.
Call a plumber if you find a leak, and take care to turn off the water supply to that appliance or fixture.
4. Put Food Coloring in the Toilet
Toilet flushing accounts for nearly 30% of an average home’s water consumption, and it’s a prime spot for interior leaking. You can check if there’s a leak with a simple test.
Add a few drops of food coloring to all the toilet tanks in your home and wait 10 minutes. If color appears in your bowl, you have a leak.
5. Keep an Eye Out for Leaking Clues
You should be regularly checking your home for any signs of a leak. Catching it early can save you thousands of dollars in repairs.
Wall discoloration and bulging wallpaper are major clues of a water leak inside the wall. Check cabinets under basins for mold and musty smells. And any oxidation or discoloration of pipes could be a sign of a slow leak.
How to Detect a Water Leak Made Easy
There you have it. Now you know how to detect a water leak in your home quickly so you know when to call in professional help.
Did you find this advice about finding a water leak helpful? We’re happy to help, so give us a call if you need further assistance.
