While a leak may not seem like a big problem at that moment, it can escalate into a major plumbing emergency. According to the EPA, a leak can cost homeowners trillions of gallons’ worth of water loss per year. That’s a huge waste of our natural resources.
Tracing down a water leak in your plumbing system may seem like tricky business, but it’s a necessary step you must take to avoid any potential, costly damage. Figuring out where the source of the leak depends on the kind of leak it is. A pipe dripping under the sink is easier to locate than one hidden in the ceiling or behind the wall.
To trace a leak, you must closely inspect all rooms.
Confirming the Leak
To pinpoint the source of the leak, move the suspected appliance out of its location to locate the source of water. For example, a faulty supply line could be leaking water around the dishwasher. If this doesn’t help you identify the leak, turn off all faucets, fixtures, and appliances in your home that require water. Make a mark on the water meter with a pencil or tape where the needle is currently pointing. Leave the faucets, appliances, and fixtures off for around eight hours and take a reading of the meter afterward. If the needle has moved, it means there’s a leak in the plumbing system.
Bathrooms and Kitchens
Take a flashlight and use it to look for leaks in the cabinets beneath the sink. See if you can spot moisture on the joints or on the base of the P-trap. A leaking pipe can also be signaled by corrosion on the valves and line fittings.
Look for signs of dampness, mold and mildew, water stains, and peeling material inside or around the pipes. Tighten up the fittings and wipe away any visible moisture. Then turn on the water to see if the problem’s fixed. If not, the trouble could be with the piping.
Examine the Ceiling, Floors, and Walls
Take a look at the flooring around appliances and fixtures that use water. This includes showers, bathtubs, toilets, refrigerators, and dishwashers. Warped or cracked floors with spongy sections indicate a possible leak and moisture seepage. Also, examine the ceilings and walls in rooms directly below bathrooms. Peeling paint or wallpaper and stained ceilings signal a leak in the plumbing pipes in the walls.
Check the Basement or Crawlspace
If there are any exposed pipes in the plumbing or crawlspace area, make sure to check those too. Moisture or corrosion present around the pipes can signal a leak. If you see rotting wood as well as mold and mildew near the pipes. That could pinpoint the location of the leak.
About Pro Serve Plumbers
Having trouble detecting the source of the leak? We can help you out. We are one of the leading plumbing companies in Forth Worth, TX. We provide a wide range of plumbing services. Call us now at 817-244-0614!
