Hidden water leaks can cause a loss of approximately 10,000 gallons per year in an average home. Leaks in severe cases can cause water damage that is worth hundreds of thousands of dollars and cost homeowners up to $300 per day. Homeowners need to practice leak detection as part their home maintenance.
Although a few minor leaks, such as running toilets or dripping taps, can be fixed quickly for a nominal cost. However, more serious issues like a leaking hot-water tank or boiler should be dealt with by a local plumber.
These tips will help you identify plumbing leaks.
These signs indicate that there’s a hidden water leak.
- Is there low water pressure in your shower or bath? If the water pressure is too high, turn off all fixtures.
- A boiler or hot water heater that is always on may develop water spots, wet patches, or make a hissing noise.
- The lawn may have wet patches sometimes, even though it’s the hottest day.
- Signs of a water leak include mold, yellow or brown spots, discoloration, and bubbling or peeling wallpaper.
- Water running, or dripping, when it shouldn’t.
Hidden water leaks can be found using:
- To see how much water you use, you can check your water bill. You can monitor your water bill to see how much you are using.
- After reading the water meter, turn off the water supply to the house for 20 minutes. The shut-off valve will then be used to determine if the leak is in the house’s service line or in the house. Give it another 20 minutes. It is possible that the meter is spinning.
- A running toilet is unlikely to cause any damage but it can be expensive for homeowners. The bowl may be stained with dye.
- Inspect the fittings, valves and hoses for appliances like washers, fridges, and dishwashers regularly. They could be in need of water and vibrate enough that they come loosen.
- Look out for signs of corrosion or mineral buildup around pipes and fittings.
Plumbing leak detection is a must for homeowners. However, it’s not the only way to lose. Homeowners who don’t practice water conservation could end up paying more than they should.
There’s many ways to conserve water.
- When replacing an appliance or fixture, consider WaterSense-labeled water efficient products.
- Only use the dishwasher/washer when it is full.
- Turn off the water tap when you’re brushing your teeth, or washing your hands.
- While washing dishes, don’t let the water run continuously. Instead, fill the sink with water.
- Do not wash vegetables in running water. Instead, use a bowl to wash them.
- Take a shower instead of taking a soak.
- Install faucet aerators and a dam if the toilet isn’t low-flowing.
- Water your lawn once a week and water plants when necessary
- A rain barrel can be used with a screen to catch water and keep mosquitoes away.
Residents can help save water by changing their behavior and learning what to look out for. Residents may delay fixing their plumbing issues because they don’t have the funds.