Tips to Help Find and Fix Water Leaks
Water leaks may initially seem like a minor inconvenience, but they can quickly turn into costly issues that jeopardize both a home's structural integrity and financial well-being. Whether it's a small drip under the sink or a hidden pipe problem behind the walls, undetected leaks can waste thousands of gallons of water each year, causing serious damage such as mold growth, rotting wood, and inflated utility bills.
The average household loses nearly 10,000 gallons of water annually due to easily fixable leaks, enough to wash 270 loads of laundry. Identifying the warning signs of water leaks early helps protect a home, save money, and contribute to water conservation. This guide highlights the common indicators of water leaks and provides practical tips for preventing water damage.
High Water Bills
When a water bill suddenly increases without a corresponding change in water usage, it’s often a clear indicator of a hidden leak. While minor seasonal variations are normal, an increase of 20% or more in the monthly cost should prompt investigation. This rise usually means that water is being wasted somewhere in the plumbing, possibly resulting in unseen damage.
Acting swiftly to address potential leaks is key, as even small leaks can add up to large amounts of wasted water. A leaking toilet may waste up to 200 gallons a day, and a dripping faucet can result in a loss of 20 gallons within 24 hours. Beyond the environmental and financial impact, failing to fix leaks can lead to extensive structural damage, mold growth, and foundation issues. By regularly reviewing water bills for unexpected spikes, it’s possible to detect leaks early and prevent more expensive repairs down the line.
Other Signs of a Leak
Water leaks can show up in many ways that homeowners should be attentive to. Along with spikes in water bills, signs like hearing water running when fixtures are off, musty odors, and unexplained moisture on walls, floors, or ceilings should raise concerns. Visibly damaged areas like peeling paint, warped floors, or discolored surfaces often indicate hidden leaks, while mold or mildew growth in unusual spots could point to a moisture problem beneath the surface.
Signs of a potential water leak outside the home include areas of unusually green or vibrant grass during dry spells, which might suggest an underground pipe issue. Persistent leaks can also lead to foundation problems, including cracks or shifting, due to water weakening the structure. Additionally, if water pressure decreases in the house or there are sounds of dripping from within the walls, it’s a sign of a leak that needs urgent attention before it causes further damage.
Use the Water Meter
The water meter is one of the most reliable tools for detecting hidden water leaks in a home. To perform a leak test, the first step is to locate the water meter (usually near the street or property line) and record the current reading. Next, ensure no water is being used in or around the home for at least two hours – this means no running faucets, dishwashers, washing machines, or irrigation systems. After this waiting period, check the meter reading again. If the numbers have changed despite no water usage, there is likely a leak somewhere in the plumbing system.
For more precise detection, many modern water meters feature a small triangle or diamond-shaped flow indicator that rotates when water is flowing through the meter. This indicator can detect even minor water movement, making it particularly useful for identifying slow leaks. If the indicator is moving while all water sources are shut off, it is a clear sign of a leak that requires immediate attention. It is also helpful to check the meter during daylight hours for better visibility and to consider taking photos of the readings for comparison purposes if the numbers are difficult to remember.
About The Darville Company
A family-owned heating, cooling, and plumbing contractor serving the Odessa-Midland and Permian Basin since 1947, The Darville Company provides exceptional service and stands behind its work. Their team of skilled, experienced technicians is available for 24-hour emergency repairs, ensuring customers can rely on us any time, day or night, for all their heating, cooling, and plumbing needs. For water leak repair in Odessa, TX, call them!
