Some types of leaks cannot be detected immediately. As a result, this can lead to financial losses. If you don`t know how to detect water leaks, contact specialists as soon as possible. They will help you reduce your water bills and prevent a disaster.
Common Signs of a Hidden Water Leak
Mold growth and high utility bills are not the only disadvantages of leaks. They can damage property and cause a musty smell. Let’s take a closer look at the signs of this problem below.
Unexplained increase in water usage
It is recommended to begin checking for leaks at the meter. If consumption has increased, there may be an urgent problem that needs to be addressed.
Try turning off all water in the house and see if the meter reading continues to rise. If so, you have a leak.
Damp walls, ceilings, or floors
Among the most obvious signs of water leaks are damp walls, ceilings, and floors. Not only do they damage finishing materials, but they also have a long-term negative impact on health. Moisture contributes to mold growth, so it is worth checking the supply system and preventing the problem from developing.
Mold, mildew, or musty smells
Unnoticed water accumulation eventually leads to mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors. This results in such destructive actions as:
- corrosion of metal structures;
- root of wood;
- damage to wall and floor finishes;
- condensation on windows, especially on window sills and corners.
The biggest drawback is the impact on human health. People with weak immune systems and allergies are particularly at risk.
Dripping or hissing sounds in pipes
If you hear dripping or hissing in the pipes even when the taps are turned off, this may indicate a leak. Such sounds often come from hidden places – behind walls or under the floor. They should not be ignored, as the damage may worsen over time.
Low water pressure in faucets
A drop in pressure at the faucets or shower can often be due to water escaping through a damaged section of pipe. The result of this is inconvenience due to problems with household appliances and insufficient water pressure for showering.
Step-by-Step Guide to Detecting Water Leaks
A small plumbing leak can quickly turn into a big one. How to find a water leak? A specialist can help identify the problem by following the correct steps and using the right tools.
Step 1 – Turn off all water-using appliances
Start by turning off the taps throughout the house. Locate the main shut-off valve and turn off all nearby taps. Before moving on to the next step, double-check everything.
Step 2 – Check the water meter for changes
Check whether the water bill continues to accumulate after the water has been shut off. Collect previous bills and compare them with the current ones. If they differ significantly, then you need to conduct an additional check and find the source of the leak.
Step 3 – Inspect visible pipes and fittings
How to find a leak in a pipe? Check the underground water pipes by entrusting this task to a plumber. Also, don’t forget about hidden pipes behind walls, ceilings, and other areas. This may be more difficult, but it is possible with a professional approach.
Step 4 – Test toilets and faucets for leaks
Toilets are the plumbing fixtures most prone to leaks. Below are two basic ways to identify a leak.
| Method of Inspection | Description |
|---|---|
| Use of food coloring | Put a few drops of food coloring in the flush tank, don’t flush, and wait a bit. If the water in the toilet changes color, there’s a leak between the tank and the toilet. |
| Inspecting the ceiling under the toilet | Check for stains or wet spots. Puddles usually appear near the source of the leak. |
Step 5 – Examine outdoor areas and irrigation systems
The next method of how to find a water leak in house is to check for puddles on the lawn or garden paths. They often indicate a problem with the irrigation system.
Connect the garden hose to the outdoor tap and carefully inspect the connection point. If you notice any water leakage, replace the sealing ring and ensure the connection is tight and does not leak.
Step 6 – Look for signs in the basement or crawl spaces
Check whether damp walls and floors have appeared in the basement. A musty smell is another warning sign. You should also be wary of whether there are more insects and rodents, as they are more active in higher humidity.
How to Detect Leaks in Specific Areas
Some leaks can be particularly difficult to detect. The results of such problems include uneven brickwork, patchy lawns, and so on. There are several life hacks for detecting leaks in specific areas.
How to find a leak in a wall
Water stains on walls are usually yellow or brown. Most often, they indicate leaks in the roof or water pipes. Here are a few more signs of such problems:
- peeling or bubbling paint – moisture behind the surface;
- fungal and mold growth – most often seen in corners and behind furniture;
- sagging or deformation of the ceiling in the bathroom or kitchen – a sign of a leak.
Conduct regular checks to avoid missing it.
How to detect underground leaks
Underground leaks usually manifest as puddles on the lawn, excessively green patches of grass, or soil subsidence. For accurate detection, acoustic sensors are used to record water sounds in pipes, or a water meter test is performed by turning off all appliances in the house.
How to find a leak in a pipe
There are several ways to check pipes. If they are hidden, check for heat under the surface. Standard signs such as corrosion, drips, and wet spots around joints can also be indicators.
How to detect leaks under the flooring
Leaks under the floor often manifest as swelling of the covering, warm or cold spots, and a moldy smell. Moisture meters or thermal imagers are used for accurate diagnosis. If the floor begins to deform for no apparent reason, this is a serious sign of a hidden leak.
Tools and Methods for Leak Detection
Different tools are used for different types of leaks. Among the main methods, the following are worth highlighting:
- using water meters;
- listening for dripping sounds during quiet periods;
- using thermal imaging (a special thermal imaging camera to obtain infrared images).
It is worth starting with visual inspections.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
To save money and spare yourself stress, it is worth calling a plumber. With their tools, skills, and experience, they will be able to identify the source of the problem more quickly and carry out repairs. If you do not want such problems to recur, arrange for regular plumbing maintenance.
How to Prevent Future Water Leaks
To prevent breakdowns and inconveniences, it is important to remember preventive measures. Regularly check faucets, pipes, and connections for wear or damage. Replace seals as necessary to prevent leaks. Monitor water pressure – too high a pressure can cause leaks, so it is helpful to install a regulator. Clean drains and pipes for proper drainage. During the cold season, insulate exposed pipes to prevent them from freezing and bursting.
