Leak detection in our homes can be a real pain financially if it is not detected in time. Most homeowners do not realize how expensive repairs can be. They are therefore ignorant of the obvious signs and let the otherwise manageable situation spiral out of control. Water is a useful part of our daily lives, it can however become an enemy fast if it reaches places that it shouldn’t. Home furnishing and structure may be the victims of such plumbing leaks.
Every house likely suffers from a plumbing leak. Do not think that a new house is not vulnerable to such as not all leaks are obvious. Leaks can be insidious making it essential to trace and repair any leak as quickly as possible. Every homeowner should at least know some basic steps to find a water leak before they call in the experts. Here are some tips on leak detection that you should practice at your home.
Constantly check the water bill
Water bills that are billed monthly become relatively predictable if the routine is similar. Any high spikes in water bills in a higher direction should be an indicator that something is not right. Most homeowners ignore the water small water leaks from taps not knowing that these droplets can waste up to 10,000 gallons of water per year. It is therefore very proactive to keep an eye on the water bill. This will save you money on exorbitant expenses.
Check for a drop in water pressure
Whether you are taking the shower or filling the bathtub, a drop in water pressure is an obvious sign that there might be something worth checking out. However, do not assume that low pressure automatically warrants a leak. Sometimes it happens due to a clogged showerhead that occurs after a build-up of limescale or a faulty shower. Try cleaning the showerhead to see if there is a visible difference.
How to detect a water leak underground?
If you are wondering how to detect a leak underground, then the signs to check for are damp patches or pools of water on your floors. Smells too unwittingly disclose leaks as they take some time to come through leading to mildew and mould forming which have distinct odours. There several leak detection tools in the market if you looking to add technology to the mix.
How to detect a water leak in the garden?
If your meter keeps running but you still can’t find any sign of a water leak inside your home, then it might be hidden somewhere outside the garden or just outside your premises. If the meter is located in your garden check for overgrown grass or muddy patches around the pipe. It may sometimes involve digging to fix the issue and if you cannot do it yourself call the plumber to fix it for you.
How to check for a water leak under the concrete
This may prove more complicated but is not impossible. As mentioned above looking out for damp patches on floors and smelling of mildew and mould are effective measures. You could also look out cracks or uneven surfaces on the concrete.
Common places that water leaks occur
Do you suspect a leak in your home? There are some common culprits around the home that are worth checking first. Here is a look at the most common places water leakage occurs:
- Boiler/ water tank. Check the valves bring in water into/out of the tank. If a leak is present it should be visible. If the water is not escaping, look for marks on the floor or a hissing sound. This is not something to try and fix yourself. Call a specialist as it could be something entirely different.
- Appliances. Daily use of appliances can slightly shift them from their position this can loosen the valves and pipes and lead to leaks. Always check them to ensure that the attachments are secure.
- Showerheads. Showerheads are used regularly if not daily. This will inadvertently lead to wear and tear and you’re likely to find leaks. Low pressure and a clogged showerhead could also be a sign of leakage and it is crucial this becomes one of the first places you check.
- Toilets. Much like showerheads we use toilets on a regular. It is not unusual when the toilet starts leaking. Do not assume the leak as it can be costly to let it run. The best way to check for a leak at home on the toilet is to add food colouring in the tank and leave it for about ten minutes. If you return and find the water inside the bowl is the same colour as the tank water, then your toilet leaks.
Water damage is costly to homeowners and insurance companies. You necessarily can’t avoid all risks but the steps mentioned above can significantly reduce the risk and damage to your premise and bank balance. Sometimes a leak will not be just the drip leaving them undetected could lead to the drip becoming a flood. It is thus vital to detect them early.
