Check for greener areas of grass. While it's true that you want a fully functioning water system in your home, overwatering can be a problem. Although they're common, knowing how to find a water leak can be tricky, but you'll want to fix the problem before it gets worse. For times when it's hard to know where the leak is coming from, here are 10 tips to help you get to the source quickly.
One of the best ways to tell if you have a leak somewhere in the pipe is to check the water meter. To do this, you will first have to turn off all the water in your house. Turn off all faucets and make sure that the dishwasher and washing machine are not working. Then look at the gauge and see if it starts to change.
If you do, you're likely to have a fast-moving leak. If the meter doesn't change immediately, wait two hours and check it again. If it has changed even though all the water has been cut off, it may be a slower leak. The leak could be anywhere after the meter, or even underground.
Remember that all pipes after the meter are the responsibility of the owner. Open the cabinet doors under the sinks and turn on a flashlight inside to check for moisture in the joints and on the bottom of the P trap. Signs of a leaky pipe can also include corrosion on the fittings and valves in the supply line. Clean the cabinet and examine the bottom for stains of water, moisture, mold or mildew and bent or peeled material, indicating that a leak has occurred.
Tighten the accessories and wipe off any moisture. The first tip to follow to determine if the leak is inside or coming from outside is to turn off all the water in the house. Every home must have a water valve that can shut off all water intake to the house. If you turn off the water supply and the leak stops soon after, it's a good indication that the leak is coming from inside your home.
However, if the leak continues to flow, it is very likely that the source is coming from outside. Water tends to move downward, and often the location of water stains is not the exact location of the leaking pipe. For example, if you see a discoloration on the wall (yellowish or brown) or if you see water stains, this could be a warning sign of a water leak coming from behind the drywall. You can usually find your water meter near the street or where the water supply line connects to the house.
Activate the main water supply shut-off valve, check the water meter and write down the numbers.
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