How to Check & Inspect for Potential Leaks

Check Your Water Meter

One of the easiest ways to see if you leak is by checking your water meter. First, ensure no water is used inside or outside your house. Locate your water meter and write down the number you see. Wait for about two hours without using any water. After the wait, recheck the meter. If the number has changed, you probably leak. This method is a great starting point for leak detection.

Inspect Your Toilets

Toilets are a common source of leaks. To check for leaks in your toilet, lift the lid off the tank and listen. If you hear any hissing sounds, that’s a sign of a leak. You can also put a few drops of food coloring into the tank. Wait about 15 minutes without flushing. There's a leak if you see the color in the toilet bowl. A plumber can help fix this with their plumbing repair service.

Examine Your Faucets and Showerheads

Dripping faucets and showerheads can waste a lot of water. Look at the base of your faucets and around the handles for water. If you see any, you might leak. Turn the water on and off and watch to see if it continues to drip. Sometimes, a simple tightening can fix the issue, but you might need a water leak repair if it doesn't.

Check Under Sinks

Leaks under sinks are easy to miss because they’re out of sight. Open the cabinets under your kitchen and bathroom sinks and look for signs of water. You might see water stains, dampness, or even puddles. If you find any of these signs, you probably leak. A plumbing service can inspect and repair any leaks under your sinks.

Look at Your Walls and Ceilings

Sometimes, leaks can happen inside your walls and ceilings, causing water stains or damp spots. Look for any discoloration or bubbling paint. These are signs of water leaking behind the walls or above the ceiling. Call a plumber for a professional inspection and water leak repair if you find any of these signs.

Inspect Your Water Heater

Water heaters can also be a source of leaks. Check around the base of your water heater for any signs of water. Look for rust or corrosion on the tank, which can indicate a leak. If you find any signs of a leak, it’s essential to contact a plumbing repair service to assess the damage and fix it.

Check Outside Spigots

Leaks can also occur outside your home. Check your garden hose spigots and irrigation system. Turn on the water and watch for any leaks around the connection points. If water leaks, replace the washers or tighten the connections. For more severe issues, a plumbing service can provide the necessary repairs.

Monitor Your Water Bill

A sudden increase in your water bill can signal a leak. If you notice that your bill is higher than usual and you haven’t changed your water usage, it’s a good idea to start checking for leaks. Sometimes, the increase is due to a small, unnoticed leak that’s been going on for a while. Leak detection can help you find the source of the problem.

Use Your Sense of Smell

Your nose can also help you detect leaks. If you smell mold or mildew, it’s a sign of moisture somewhere in your home. Follow the smell to find the source. Mold and mildew thrive in damp environments, so if you see them, there’s likely a leak nearby. A plumber can help locate and fix the leak before it causes more damage.

Get Professional Help

If you’ve checked all these places and still can’t find the leak, it might be time to call a professional. A plumbing service can provide thorough leak detection and water leak repair. They have special tools and expertise to find and fix hard-to-detect leaks.

Mr. Rooter Plumbing

Regular inspection and early detection of leaks can prevent significant damage to your home and save you money. Remember, if you’re uncomfortable doing these checks or find a serious issue, Mr. Rooter Plumbing is always available to help. By staying vigilant and addressing problems early, you can keep your home safe and dry.