Water leaks can get expensive, especially if the leak is flowing faster than a slow drip. Even a drip can hike up the utility bill.
Unfortunately, not all leaks are obvious. Some are hidden in areas that are difficult to detect.
It’s important for a homeowner to be able to check for leaks. There could be damage going on like mold growth or rotting. A foundation can crack and crumble from a leak if it erodes the soil underneath away.
The professional Everett Plumbers at Apollo Plumbing can tell you how to check your home for water leaks.
If you are having trouble finding and fixing your leaks in Snohomish County or King County, just give us a call. We’ll be glad to help.
Here are some ways you can check for leaks around your home.
Check Your Whole House Water Meter For Leaks
If you have a municipal water supply and not a well, check the meter. The water meter can tell you whether or not you have a combination of small leaks or larger leaks.
Here is how to do a meter check for leaks:
- Turn off all water using systems inside and outside. This includes sprinkler systems, washing machines, toilet flushing and filling, dishwasher, water heater, water softener systems, whole house humidifiers, water filtration systems, and faucets.
- Read the water meter and write down the current number. Wait about 15 minutes. Make sure no one in the household is using water anywhere.
- After 15 minutes, check the meter again. If water was used, the meter will read a different number. This means you likely have a leak. This test will only detect large leaks, so the results aren’t definite.
- Check the water meter box for wetness. Sometimes the water supply lines will leak and the water flows along the pipe back to the meter.
Check For Water Leaks In The Yard
Walk around your yard and look for darker areas of grass. This can mean that this area is getting more water from somewhere. Some outdoor leaks are noticeable due to water pooling, making the grass soppy.
Check For Water Leaks Around Faucets, Shower, & Tub
Small leaks around the faucet, tub handles and shower head are common. Just feel around the projection from the wall or sink to see if there is moisture. Also, check your washing machine water supply connections.
Check The Toilet For Water Leaks
Open the back of your commode and look at the water level. The level should not have risen higher than 1 inch from the top of the overflow tube. If too high, water will flow down the tube to drain. Also, check that the float shuts off the water completely when it rises. Check that the tank ball (or Flapper) fits snugly in the flush valve seat. Lastly, check for moisture around the toilet’s water supply line and shut-off valve.
