Spot a Hidden Water Leak With These Pro Tips!
Plumbing leaks are among the most significant sources of water waste in American homes – the EPA estimates that the average household can lose around 10,000 gallons of water every year to leaks! Not only that, but leaks can also lead to spikes in the water bill, water damage, and mold growth that can be incredibly expensive to remedy.
The most noticeable water leaks are dripping faucets and running toilets from worn-out toilet flappers. But other leaks may not be obvious - those in pipes hidden behind walls, under floors, or underground. Because they’re much harder to spot, these hidden water leaks can go unnoticed for months, inflating the home’s water bills and potentially damaging the home or its foundation. So this article will arm homeowners with the knowledge they need to identify and stop hidden leaks in their tracks!
Be Aware of the Telltale Signs
Although underground leaks can be difficult to spot, they usually leave some clues to their existence. An unusually high water bill is one of the most common ways homeowners discover they leak their plumbing - particularly if there seems to be no other explanation for the increase in water usage.
A decrease in water pressure is another indirect hint that there may be a leak – and if it’s a very noticeable loss in water pressure, it may be a pretty big one. When no water is being used, the sound of running water in the walls or under the floor may also indicate a leak. If there’s a leak in an underground water line, homeowners may notice puddles of water, soggy spots, or areas where grass grows thicker in the yard.
Perform the Water Meter Test
Awareness of the signs above can help homeowners catch leaks early on, but some leaks are a little sneakier and won’t necessarily produce such noticeable symptoms. If homeowners want something more conclusive, they can run a simple test to see if they have a hidden water leak.
First, they’ll want to ensure no water is being used inside or outside the house (including appliances such as dishwashers or washing machines). Then, they can go to their home’s water meter and write down the numbers on the dial, indicating the amount of water used. After waiting 1-2 hours - ensuring no water is used, they can return to the meter and write down the numbers they see. If the numbers have changed, there’s almost certainly a leak.
To determine if the leak is inside the house or in an underground pipe between the meter and the house, homeowners can turn off their home’s main water valve and repeat this test. If the number changes, the leak is likely somewhere between the home and the water meter.
Call a Pro for Leak Detection Services
Being able to tell when the home has a water leak is a great start, but finding the exact location of that leak is another story. Calling a professional to perform water leak detection services is essential. Plumbers use specialized equipment to determine the size and location of hidden leaks with incredible accuracy.
One method commonly used to pinpoint the location of leaks is called acoustic leak detection. This involves using highly sensitive ground microphones that filter out ambient noises, allowing the technician to listen for specific frequencies that indicate leaks. Another method involves devices called leak noise correlators, which use special sensors placed at different points on a pipe. These sensors record the sound of a leak and pinpoint the location of the leak by calculating and comparing the time it takes for the sound to travel to each sensor.
These advanced tools allow leak detection specialists to pinpoint leaks quickly and accurately without tearing up the walls, floors, or landscaping. If homeowners suspect they leak, they should call their trusted local plumber immediately to prevent water damage and avoid wasting more money on water costs.
About Force Plumbing and Heating LLC
Force Plumbing and Heating LLC is a family-owned and operated company serving Red Bank, NJ, and the surrounding areas. They provide on-time arrivals, fully licensed, bonded, and insured technicians, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for emergency plumbing services in Red Bank, NJ.
