How do you know if you have a water leak in your home? Here are some strategies used by providers of plumbing services in Modesto, CA that you can use around the house to uncover problematic leaks.
Step one: Analyze your water meter
Perhaps the best way to determine if you have a leak is to pay close attention to your water meter. First, make sure you do not have any water currently being used inside or outside of your house. Next, find the water meter and check the leak indicator that should be on it to see if it’s moving. This meter could be a small, triangular dial, or a small silver wheel that rotates as water flows. If the dial is moving and you are sure no water is being used in your home, you have a leak.
You can also take a meter reading and then come back an hour or two later and compare the reading, making sure no water is used during that time. If the reading changed in that hour or two, there’s a leak in your house.
Step two: Find the source of the leak
The next step is to figure out exactly where the leak is occurring, and if it’s inside or outside of your home. Find the main shutoff valve for your exterior water and shut off the water at that valve. This valve is usually located either in the basement or the garage, just behind or below an outdoor faucet.
Next, check the leak indicator for water movement, and make sure you do not use any water while the valve is shut off. If the leak indicator stops moving, or if there is not a change in meter readings during the time the valve is shut off, then the leak is located inside the house. If the indicator continues to move or you discover a change in meter readings, the leak is outside.
If you can’t find the leak, you might need to seek the assistance of a plumber. However, there are several common places you can check:
- Faucets: Faucet leaks often develop after rubber washers wear down and no longer provide a proper seal. This is an easy fix.
- Toilets: Even a small toilet leak can waste a lot of water over time, but most leaks are easy to repair. A good way to figure out if you have a toilet leak is to place some food coloring in the back of the toilet tank. If any of the color comes through to the bowl, there’s a leak in the toilet. You can usually resolve this by replacing the flapper or fitting. The flush handle might also be sticking.
- Underground leaks: Wet portions of your property are indications of an underground leak, as are frequent puddles located on your driveway, street or curb.
For more information about finding and resolving leaks, contact a plumber in Modesto, CA at Alvarado Pumping Septic Service. We look forward to helping you!