Finding a Hidden Water Leak

How Homeowners Can Detect a Hidden Leak in Their Plumbing

When leaks in the plumbing are out of sight, they can be challenging to detect until significant damage occurs. Hidden leaks can sit for a long time, damaging a home’s structure and creating a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which are not only unsightly but can be hazardous to the health of everyone in the house. This blog will share ways that homeowners can identify if they have a leak in their plumbing so they can call a plumber immediately to locate and fix it.

Signs and Symptoms of a Hidden Water Leak

One way to be alerted to a leak is by noticing common warning signs. These signs and symptoms indicating the presence of a leak include the following:

• Sound of Running Water: If no water-using appliances or fixtures are running, the sound of water running is not good and can indicate a leak.

• High Water Bill: If a homeowner notices their water bill has suddenly gotten very high with no change in their water usage, there is likely a hidden leak.

• Puddles of Water: When there are puddles or wet spots in the home or yard, and there has been no rain, it may be due to a leak. 

• Decrease in Water Pressure:  If the water pressure throughout the house seems lower than usual, there may be a leak somewhere in the water supply line.

Confirming a Leak: Checking the Water Meter

A water meter can be a great tool to help identify potential leaks in a home's plumbing. To check for a leak, turn off all fixtures and water-using appliances, or turn off the main water valve to ensure no water is used, then take a reading from the water meter. If the numbers on the digital display or the dials change, even when no water is running, this indicates a leak somewhere in the system. 

If homeowners have a water meter with a leak indicator, they'll know there's a leak if the wheel is spinning even when no water is running. Checking the water meter regularly can help homeowners catch a leak before it becomes a more significant problem and save them money on their water bills.

Professional Water Leak Detection Services

The most effective way to identify a leak is with professional leak detection services by a plumber. Plumbers have a myriad of equipment at their disposal for leak detection. One such piece of equipment is an acoustic leak detector, equipped with microphones that detect even the smallest leaks. Plumbers may also use moisture meters, which measure the moisture content of building materials such as walls and ceilings to detect hidden water leaks. 

Other specialized equipment commonly used for leak detection includes video inspection cameras, which allow plumbers to see into pipes, and thermal imaging cameras, which detect temperature changes that can help indicate the presence of a leak. These tools help plumbers accurately identify, locate, and repair leaks quickly, noninvasively, and efficiently.

About S and J Plumbing

S and J Plumbing is a reliable plumbing company serving Arlington Heights, IL, and the surrounding areas. They provide 24-hour emergency service, upfront pricing, and honest second opinions. Call them today for water leak detection services in Arlington Heights, IL. 

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