How to Find a Water Leak

How to Find a Water Leak

Has your kitchen sink’s slow drip started to dribble? Does your toilet constantly run after you’ve flushed? You may have a hidden leak in your home’s plumbing system. Ignoring it can cause your water bill to rise. A higher than normal bill means you’re paying for water you are not using, which can add up over time. It’s easy to find a water leak and you can do it yourself by following these simple suggestions.

Perform a Thorough Inspection

First, you want to check any obvious spaces where most leaks occur. This can be under the bathroom and kitchen sinks, the backs of cabinets and drips coming from your faucets and showers. Also check for water damage on the walls, mold or foul smells. Inspect your washing machine hoses for leaks and look for puddles near your water heater.

Check the Water Meter

Sometimes a leak may be less visible. If that is the case, then your next best option is to perform a water meter test. To conduct this test, you must shut off the water supply for inside and outside the home. Turn off appliances such as the dishwasher, washing machine and ice makers and make sure the showers and sinks are not in use. Locate the water meter (normally found in front of the home close to the sidewalk) and write down the number you see on the dial. Study the meter to make sure there is not a change. If you notice the dial moving, then you may have a fast-moving leak. If there is no change, wait 20 minutes to recheck the meter. If the reading is different then you may have a slow leak. At this point, it is best to call a professional plumber to inspect the lines.

Toilet Leak

A toilet leak is one of the most common problems homeowners face. It’s also the most unsuspecting since jiggling the toilet’s handle seems to stop the running temporarily. A worn-out flapper valve is the most likely culprit behind a toilet’s constant running. The flapper valve is the seal that goes up and down after you’ve flushed. To check, add two to three drops of food coloring to your toilet’s reservoir tank. Wait 20 to 30 minutes. If the color of the dye has made it to the bowl, then your flapper valve needs to be replaced. A trip to the local hardware store for a replacement will handle this easy fix.

Stop wasting water and your money by finding those leaks. Prevent costs from pilling up by contacting the professionals at ASAP Plumbing. We can visit your home and perform a thorough inspection of your home’s plumbing system.

Contact ASAP Plumbing today at 228-865-2727 or visit www.plumbinggulfportms.com and request a free estimate! We can handle all your plumbing needs including installation, repair and full water heater replacement.