Detecting hidden water leaks in your home is essential to prevent water damage and also saves on your water bill.  Here are some helpful tips to identify and locate hidden water leaks:

Check Your Water Meter:

• Turn off all water fixtures and ensure that no one is using water in your home.
• Locate your water meter, which is usually in the basement, utility room, or near the curb outside. It may be inside a small concrete or plastic box.
• Check the meter reading. If it’s moving when no water is being used, you likely have a leak.

Monitor Water Usage:

• Keep an eye on your monthly water bills. A sudden increase in usage without a corresponding change in your habits could indicate a leak.

Listen for Sounds:

• Listen carefully in quiet areas of your home, especially near plumbing fixtures and pipes. A hissing or rushing sound may indicate a leak.

Inspect Visible Plumbing:

• Check for visible signs of leaks under sinks, around toilets, and near appliances like washing machines and dishwashers. Look for wet spots, dripping, or puddles.

Use Food Coloring:

• To check for toilet leaks, add a few drops of food coloring to the toilet tank. Wait for about 30 minutes without flushing. If the water in the toilet bowl changes color, you have a leak in the toilet flapper valve.

Check for Dampness and Mold:

• Inspect walls, ceilings, and floors for damp spots or signs of mold and mildew growth. These can be indicators of hidden water leaks behind walls or in the ceiling.

Inspect Outdoor Areas:

• Examine your yard and outdoor plumbing fixtures, such as hoses, spigots, and irrigation systems, for signs of water pooling or dampness.

Use a Water Leak Detector:

• Purchase a water leak detection device, which can be placed near appliances or in areas prone to leaks. These devices can sound an alarm or send alerts to your smartphone when they detect moisture.

Professional Leak Detection Services:

• If you suspect a hidden leak but can’t locate it, consider hiring a professional leak detection service. They use specialized equipment, such as infrared cameras and acoustic listening devices, to pinpoint the source of the leak.

Check the Water Pressure:

• High water pressure can lead to leaks. You can use a water pressure gauge to measure the pressure at various faucets and fixtures. If it’s consistently above 80 psi, consider installing a pressure-reducing valve.

Inspect Your Water Heater:

• Check around your water heater for signs of leaks, especially at the base. Also, look for corrosion or rust on the tank, as this can indicate a potential leak.

Periodic Maintenance:

• Regularly maintain and inspect your plumbing system, including replacing old or worn-out pipes, seals, and fixtures.