We all rely on water in our homes, but only when it is safely contained in the sink, tub, pipes, or a necessary appliance like a washing machine. When water goes where it should not, it quickly becomes an enemy. Unfortunately, plumbing leaks are very common; and almost every house will experience at least one.

Why is it Important to Deal with Water Leaks As Soon as Possible?

Any water leak, whether from a leaking pipe, appliance, or fixture, can result in extensive damage to your home, property, and even the health of the occupants. Any water leak bears a considerable risk of mold growth. Excess moisture due to leaks is the perfect breeding ground for mold spores.

Though there are some obvious indicators of a water leak, like water stains on; floors, walls, and ceilings, there are other signs which are not easy to recognize. Here are ways for the accurate identification of hidden leaks, so you can call your plumber to deal with them before they become disastrous:

Scrutinize the Water Bill

Your monthly bill is quite predictable. So when you receive an unexpectedly high one, yet you have not been using surplus water- chances are there is a leak somewhere. Even small leaks, like a steady drip from a faucet, can waste an average of 10,000 gallons of water every year. Therefore, it is a wise, proactive move to scrutinize your water bill, each month.

Observe the Water Meter

If you are suspicious there could be a leak somewhere, monitoring the water meter will give a conclusive answer. The water meter location is usually at the back or side of the house, at the water supply point that goes into the building. To monitor the meter properly, you need to do the following steps;

Turn off all your facets and ensure the dishwasher and washing machine are not running.

Check the meter and note the numbers on it. Go back like in an hour, then check again. If you notice a change in the numbers, there may be a leak in the building.

To find out if there is really a leak in the building, turn off the main water supply line which is mostly located where the water pipe enters the home.

Check the water meter, again and write down the numbers you see. Wait an hour. If after checking again the number has not changed, the leak is inside the building. If the number changes, the buried water line is the one leaking.

Keep an eye out for Leaking clues

If a water supply line under the sink breaks and sprays water, immediately, you can be sure where the leak is. But water flow trickling slowly from pipes within the wall can go unnoticed until it is too late. Even if after you assess the water meter it does not indicate there is currently a leak, one can develop at any time in the future, so you need to look out for;

Bulging wallpaper or bubbling paint – These are both signs of a leak; when the wallpaper is not adhering to the wall anymore and when the wallboard is wet. In some cases, one may also notice the wallboard bulging. This indicates extensive water damage and that the wallboard needs replacing.

A dripping sound – Some leaks can be silent, like water moving through a wall stud. Other leaks can be heard sometimes, giving one a clue of where to locate them.

Wall discoloration – This is an indication of a water leak within the drywall that has soaked through to the front part. Suh water stains typically have a brownish or yellowish color.

A musty smell – One can notice black splotches on the outer part of a wall. But often, mold grows on the inside of a wall where it cannot easily be seen- so in this case, the musty smell is the red flag.

However, even if the above signs indicate a leak, not all leaks are plumbing leaks. The water could be coming from a window or a leak in the roof. Either way, all leaks need to be addressed quickly, to minimize water damage risk.

Investigate all Fixtures and Appliances

If you note that the water meter indicates a leak, check your home’s cabinets under the sinks in the laundry room, bathroom, and kitchen to ensure they are dry. Look also for a pool of water around the toilet, shower, tub bases, and under the dishwasher, water heater, and washing machine. If there is any pool, turn the water supply valve leading to the fixtures or appliances off- then call a plumber.

Look Out for Greener Grass

Even if a lush green lawn is everyone’s wish, be on the lookout for patches of grass that grow much faster and greener than the rest. This is an indication of a buried water line leak at that spot. If the leak is extreme, there may be water puddles on the ground surface.

A Dye Test in the Toilet

If you find no water puddles around appliances and fixtures, check the toilet to determine whether it needs repair because it is a major source of interior leaking. The toilet’s rubber stopper which prevents water until you flush from entering the bowl can, over time, become brittle.

Install a Leak Detector

When a battery-operated leak detector, detects gas escapes and even the slightest water leak, it emits a shrill alarm, hence enabling you to turn the water supply off and have a plumber do his job to fix the leak before water damages your home.

Do You Need Professional Plumbing Services?

Arvada Plumbing Co. is a professional emergency plumbing company offering exceptional American leak detection service to Denver and Arvada, Colorado residents. Our qualified staff has the; expertise, experience, and the latest leak detection technology equipment to pinpoint and detect leaks in all water systems- for your safety and to save money from repairing water damage later.

For more information on how to find a hidden water leak, you can visit us at 12191 W 64th | 100, Arvada, Co, 80004. You can also contact us by calling 303-500-0437.