Tips for Detecting a Hidden Water Leak
Nearly every homeowner is likely to experience a plumbing leak at some point. It comes with the territory. Fortunately, these issues are fairly hard to miss and easy to fix.
However, when an underground water pipe springs a leak, homeowners may not know anything’s wrong until thousands of gallons of water have already vanished into the soil. That’s why every homeowner should know the signs of an underground water leak and what to do about it.
Know the Warning Signs
The hunt for a hidden pipe leak starts with awareness of the key symptoms of a water leak. One common symptom is if the home’s water pressure is lower than normal. As more water leaks out of a pipe, the more the pressure drops. Unfortunately, this effect may not be noticeable with slow leaks.
A hidden leak may also produce the sound of running water in the home when no fixtures are in use. Again, this may be difficult to detect in the case of a very slow leak. An unexpected increase in the water bill may point to a leak, and even slow leaks can use up a surprising amount of water. Puddles of water or soggy spots in the yard may also indicate an underground plumbing leak.
Check the Water Meter
If homeowners have noticed any of the above signs, they can run a simple experiment to determine whether they have a water line leak. First, they need to make sure no one in the house is using water and that the dishwasher and washing machine are off. Next, they can go to the water meter (usually either located on the side of the house or near the street) and write down the numbers displayed on the usage counter.
After waiting an hour (when no faucet or fixture is being used), the homeowner can return to the meter and compare the number displayed with the one they wrote down earlier. If the two numbers are different, there’s a water leak.
Call In a Professional Leak Detection Service
Hiring a professional for water line leak detection can save a lot of time and hassle, but it’s best to hire a company that can find the leak and repair it. Hidden leak repair may involve excavating an underground pipe, which can be a messy and intensive process, mainly if the line is located under concrete. So it’s a task best left to the pros!
About John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning
John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning is a family-owned and operated local business that has been a trusted staple of the Lincoln community since 1996. They provide award-winning service, flat-rate pricing, financing, and honest recommendations. Their licensed, insured, drug-tested, and background-checked technicians are available for 24-hour emergency service, so don’t hesitate to call them today for plumbing services in Lincoln, NE.
