Water Service Leak Detection Guide: Finding the Trouble Spots

Leakage in water service lines can cause significant damage to property and can lead to a loss of water supply. In fact, water leaks cause over around a trillion gallons of wasted water every year.

It is essential to identify and repair water service line leaks as quickly as possible to avoid any inconvenience or financial loss. But, how do you do that?

Keep reading for our water service leak detection guide.

Check the Water Meter

The first step to detect water service line leaks is to check the water meter. Turn off all water appliances in your home, including faucets, showers, and toilets.

Locate your water meter. This is usually located near the street, near the entrance to your home, or in a basement or utility room. Check the meter reading. Take note of the current reading or write it down.

Wait for about 30 minutes or an hour without using any water in your home. Check the meter reading again. If the reading has changed, even though no water has been used, it is likely that you have a leak.

Look for Wet Spots

Wet spots or puddles in your yard or around your property can also indicate a water service line leak. Check for soggy patches of grass or soil, particularly in areas where the water service line runs underground.

Check your ceilings, walls, and floors for any signs of water damage or discoloration. These may be indications of a leak. Look for any wet spots or puddles of water around pipes, faucets, or appliances that use water, such as a washing machine or dishwasher.

Check under sinks for any signs of leaks, such as dampness, water stains, or mold. If you have a basement or crawl space, check for any signs of water damage or dampness, such as standing water or a musty smell.

Listen for Sounds

If you hear the sound of running water, particularly when no water is being used in your home, it may indicate a leak in your water service line.

Turn off all water appliances in your home, including faucets, showers, and toilets. Go to your water meter and listen carefully. If you hear a hissing or running water sound, it could be an indication of a water service leak.

Listen for sounds coming from the ground, walls, or ceiling, and try to locate the source of the sound. 

Listen to your pipes, especially near appliances that use water, such as a washing machine or dishwasher. If you hear any unusual sounds, it could be a sign of a leak.

Check Water Pressure

A drop in water pressure can also indicate a water service line leak. Check the water pressure in your home by turning on a faucet and observing the water flow.

If the water flow is weak, it may indicate a leak in your water service line.

Hire a Professional

If you’re unable to locate the source of the leak or repair it yourself, it’s best to hire a professional plumber to help you. They have the expertise and tools necessary to fix the problem.

If you need help, contact these leak finders today.

Water Service Leak Detection: Now You Know

In conclusion, it’s important to be proactive in detecting water service line leaks to avoid significant damage to property and loss of water supply.

By following these water service leak detection tips, you can identify the leak and take appropriate action to repair it.