How To Find Hidden Water Leaks In Your Home?

Leaks aren’t always obvious and they aren’t always easy to find. However, if you know the signs, then you will have a much better chance of spotting them. Water leaks can waste water, increase your water bills, encourage mold to grow, and cause damage to your home. The earlier you find the hidden water leak, the better. Here’s how.

1. Pay Attention To Your Water Bill

More likely than not, your water bill stays consistently the same every month. A sudden jump in pricing could be concerning – as it should! Pay close attention to your bill and if you notice anything unusual, don’t ignore it. It could be a hidden water leak.

2. Check Your Water Meter

First, you’ll want to turn off all the water to your home and make sure your appliances are not in use. This includes things like faucets, dishwasher and washing machine. Then, check your water meter for any changes. If you notice the meter changes, then that’s a tell-tale sign you have a leak. If the meter doesn’t change, don’t assume there’s still not a leak. Wait a couple hours and check again. If it has changed, then you probably have a slower water leak. No matter how big or small, however, you should have it addressed right away.

3. Do The Food Coloring Test

Yes, the food coloring test really does work! To test for leaks, drop a few drops of food coloring into your toilet tank and wait about 10 minutes. If the color shows up in your bowl, then you have a water leak and should contact a plumber.

4. Check Outdoor Plumbing Fixtures

Leaks don’t just occur inside the home, they can also occur outside. A good way to determine if a leak is outside your home is to attach a garden hose to your spigots. If water seeps out through the connection after you’ve turned the water on, you want to make sure to replace the rubber gasket as soon as possible and tighten any loose connections. Minor leaks like this can waste thousands of gallons of water each year.

5. Check Your Indoor Plumbing

Now that you’ve taken care of your outdoor plumbing, what about your indoor plumbing? Check around your appliances and rooms that have a water source, such as your kitchen and bathroom, sinks and toilets, and even your water heater. If you notice any water around these areas, then have it addressed by a professional right away.

6. Know The Signs

Since hidden leaks are, well, hidden, it’s important you know the signs of a water leak. Signs include:

• Discoloration on the ceiling
• High water bills
• Mold and mildew
• Reduced water pressure
• Wet spots
• Underground leak
• Strange noises in your plumbing
• Constantly moving water meter

Suspect You May Have A Water Leak? Contact The Pros At Roman Electric In Milwaukee, WI and Surrounding Areas!