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How to Detect Water Leaks

It's frustrating when taps or toilets leak water, but you can spot most issues with a quick visual inspection. The most devastating leaks are the ones that occur inside walls, under foundations, or in crawl spaces, as these often go undetected. Before you know it, you're facing sky-high utility bills, mold, and even structural damage.

In this guide, we'll walk you through how to detect water leaks, including:

Read on to discover how to avoid water damage by identifying both superficial and hidden leaks.

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Worried that a leak is causing damage to your home? Our 24/7 emergency service is here when you need us. We'll take care of fixtures and pipes ASAP. Don't worry, call Murray!

Signs You Might Have a Water Leak

Wondering how to detect a water leak in your house? Fortunately, it's easy to spot most superficial leaks before they cause significant damage because you'll notice:

  • Water pooling around fixtures during or even without use
  • Water inside cabinets under sinks
  • Water droplets in toilet bowls between flushes
  • Sounds from toilet tanks when not in use
  • Water droplets on visible pipes
  • Dripping, hissing, or bubbling sounds near fixtures and inlet hoses

Some leaks may only occur when using your home's plumbing. For example, water may leak out of a tap's top when turned on. You also might not immediately notice leaks in a drain line if you don't use the fixture or appliance attached to it very often.

Things become a little trickier when considering how to detect water leaks in walls and other hidden areas. The easiest way to find these leaks is to pay close attention to sudden increases in your water bill. Other signs of these hidden leaks include:

  • Water meter movement when all fixtures are off
  • Warm spots on your tile floor that weren’t there before
  • Tile cracks
  • Visible cracks around windows or doors
  • Door sticking or not shutting correctly
  • Sounds of running water from behind walls or under floors
  • Musty odors in specific rooms
  • Water stains on walls and baseboards
  • Reduced water pressure
  • Structural warping or soft drywall
  • Mold growth
  • Damp carpet

It's best to investigate any potential leak, as early treatment can minimize repair costs and limit structural damage.

Tools and Techniques for Detecting Water Leaks

You can detect water leaks in several ways using simple tricks and tools. Start with the following DIY tests:

  • Water meter test. Turn off all water sources and check your water meter. Check again in a few hours for any changes.
  • Toilet dye test. Add food coloring or leak detection tablets to your toilet's tank, and check back later for color changes in the bowl.
  • Visual inspection. Regularly check taps, shower heads, valves, and all visible pipes for leaks.

If you're sure you have a leak but can't find the source, a handheld moisture meter can be helpful. However, the thermal imaging cameras and acoustic leak detectors available to professionals are much more powerful and accurate. These tools are best for detecting water leaks under concrete slabs and in other hidden ar

How to Detect Water Leaks in Hard-to-Reach Areas

Detecting hidden leaks can be challenging without specialized equipment. However, there are a few tell-tale signs you shouldn't ignore.

  • How to detect underground water leaks: Look for foundation cracks, damp patches of carpet, and unexplained puddles on hard flooring. The presence of warmth suggests a leak from the hot water lines.
  • How to detect water leaks in walls: Check your drywall regularly for bubbling paint, mold growth, soft spots, warping, and discoloration.

If you suspect a hidden leak, turn off the water to avoid further damage. Then, call a professional for further diagnosis and repair.

When to Call a Professional

You may be able to fix small leaks in water hoses and fixtures yourself, but large or persistent leaks require professional intervention. It's also best to leave things to a professional if you suspect a leak behind walls or under your flooring, as these can be difficult to trace and repair.

Don't worry, though! Murray Service Co. has years of plumbing experience and specialized tools for locating leaks.

Think You Have a Hidden Leak? Call Murray Service Co. Today!

Trust the company that has the expertise to find leaks quickly. At Murray Service Co., our plumbers are local, experienced, and ready to serve 24/7. Call today for fast pipe and fixture repairs.