How to Detect Water Leaks In The Home

August 24, 2023

The modern plumbing system is highly complex, with pipes running throughout the entire home to bring water to kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. One leak may seem insignificant in the grand scheme of things, but you might be in for a surprise once the water bill comes.

One person uses about 80 to 100 gallons of water per day. If you add in a leak, the usage goes up even higher. But you’re paying for water you’re not using.

Protect your home from water damage and keep the bill low by taking the following steps to detect a water leak.

1. Monitor water usage.

A family of four uses up to 12,000 gallons of water per month — not more. If your usage is significantly higher, you likely have a water leak in the home.

2. Check the water meter.

If all faucets are turned off in the home and the washer or dishwasher aren’t running, then the dial on the water meter shouldn’t be moving. If it is, you may have a leak in the home. Wait about an hour after turning off the faucets before reading the water meter again.

3. Look for toilet leaks.

Unlike a leaking faucet, a leaking toilet is much harder to spot. To see if a toilet is leaking, put a few drops of food coloring in the tank, wait ten minutes, and see if the color has seeped into the toilet bowl.

4. Inspect problem areas.

Look under the sink, around toilets, and by the outdoor water faucet for signs of mold and moisture. If you notice a musty smell, that could be another indicator of a water leak.

5. Inspect water sources outside the home.

Water hoses and exterior faucets are often ignored when checking for leaks. Walk around the home and look for areas that seem to be constantly wet. There may be leaking plumbing pipes nearby.

6. Check for patches of unusually green grass.

Part of the lawn may be getting more water than usual. As a result, you’ll have grass that appears very green. Another cause could be a sewer line leak.

7. Inspect appliances and fixtures.

Check the dishwasher, washing machine, and refrigerator for signs of leaks. Inspect the connecting hoses for these appliances to ensure they’re not leaking.

If you have any questions or would like Hamilton Plumbing, Heating, A/C, Rooter to conduct a professional water leak inspection, give us a call at (913) 227-4943!

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