Water leaks can lead to fungal growth, rotten wood, and higher energy costs in your home. First, you should figure out whether or not you have a leak, before calling a plumber to fix the issue. Since it’s not always obvious, below are a few strategies to identify the problem.

5 Tips for Locating Hidden Water Leaks 

1. Check the Usage 

Fasten a garden hose to a spigot on your siding, then turn it on. If water drips between the hose and faucet, you have an exterior leak, which wastes considerable water. Also, if your records indicate that each resident is using between 80 to 100 gallons every day, you likely have a severe internal leak.

2. Watch the Meter 

Shut off all the water in your home, then observe your water meter. If it indicates that water is still running, there is a leak somewhere in your plumbing system. The faster your meter alerts you to this, the more severe the hole, and the sooner you should call a plumber. If you do not address this, you could face flooding and structural damage to the home’s foundation.

3. Study the Bill 

One small leak can rust the pipes, widening the opening and allowing more water to exit. Pay close attention to your water bills each month, and compare them every time you get a new one. If costs are increasing despite no change in your water usage, you likely have a leak that will keep growing.

4. Do a Toilet Test 

Place a few drops of food coloring into your toilet water. Walk away for 20 minutes before coming back to check on it. If you no longer see the food coloring, it indicates that there’s a toilet leak. Typically, this is in the flapper, and it allows water to travel freely between your tank and drain. 

5. Be Aware

Another way to detect leaks is if you see any water spots on the wall or hear dripping but cannot find the source. There will also be a musty or moldy smell near these areas. Mold or mildew may also grow in your cabinets or beneath water basins, alerting you to an issue.

 

If you have a water leak somewhere and need professional assistance, contact Big River Plumbing in Ellsworth, WI. After more than 20 years of supplying the St. Paul metro area with excellent and affordable residential and commercial plumbing services, these plumbers can quickly identify and fix the leak. Each job they perform comes with a one-year warranty. To schedule a visit, call (612) 286-5662. Visit them online for more information about their services.