Three Ways Homeowners Can Identify Water Leaks

Catch Water Leaks to Prevent Extensive Water Damage and High Water Bills

A water leak can be very problematic for a household. They can lead to extensive water damage that can be costly to repair, and the longer a leak is allowed to continue, the more money will be wasted on water bills. But water leaks aren’t always apparent. Luckily, even hidden leaks can be identified if homeowners know what to look for. This article will cover some ways homeowners can identify water leaks so they can call a plumber for water leak detection and repair. 

Common Signs of a Leak

There are a handful of signs that homeowners should keep in mind when it comes to finding out if they have a leak. One of the most common indicators of a water line leak is a decrease in water pressure. Water sounds, especially the sounds of dripping or running water when the plumbing isn’t in use, could also indicate a leak. 

Of course, there are also the more obvious signs. These include wet spots or water stains on walls, floors, or ceilings, mold and mildew growing, sagging ceilings, and warped flooring. Unfortunately, these more obvious signs often only appear after the leak has caused water damage within the home.

Spike in Water Bills

Keeping an eye on the water bills isn’t just a good idea to stay on top of finances, but it can also help homeowners determine if they have a water leak. By monitoring water usage from month to month, homeowners can be alerted to a leak if they see a spike in water costs without a noticeable change in water usage. 

Of course, this depends on whether there has been any change to water usage inside the house. If there is a guest staying over or if the household has been using more water than normal, there could be a logical explanation for the increased costs. But if nothing has changed and there’s a spike in water costs, it could mean a leak in the plumbing. 

Check the Water Meter

Most water meters have a handy leak indicator that homeowners can use to see if there’s a leak somewhere in the home’s plumbing system. But before the homeowner can check the meter, they must make sure no water is being used within or outside the house. This includes sprinklers or any appliances that use water. Once they’re sure everything is off, they can look at the water meter. 

The leak indicator is often a small colored star or triangle that will move even when a very small amount of water passes through the meter. However, if the meter doesn’t have a clear leak indicator, there’s another way to see if there’s a leak. The homeowner can simply record the meter’s reading (or take a picture) and avoid using water for an hour or two. If the numbers have climbed after an hour or two without water being used, it indicates a leak somewhere in the system. 

If homeowners think they have a water leak after noticing signs of a leak, a high water bill, or their water meter’s reading, it’s essential they call a plumber. Plumbers will be able to locate the leak and perform leak repair before it does more damage to the home and a homeowner’s expenses.

About Ira Hansen and Sons Plumbing

Ira Hansen and Sons Plumbing is a family-owned and operated company that has been serving Sparks, NV, and the surrounding areas since 1986. They provide honest, upfront service and competitive prices. Call them today for water leak detection and repair in Sparks, NV.  

• 
  +