Although burst pipes, clogged toilets, and other plumbing problems are easy to spot, hidden leaks can be a bit more difficult to locate. Often, these leaks are left unattended and lead to increased water bills — the Environmental Protection Agency estimates that leaking accounts for 90 gallons of wastewater daily in 10 percent of homes. Our team at Roto-Rooter understands all the symptoms of hidden plumbing leaks that can help you decide whether or not you need to call a licensed plumber.
Take a look at five ways to check for hidden plumbing leaks below.
Monitor Your Water Meter
Take note of the reading on your water meter. Afterward, turn off all the faucets in your home, as well as every appliance that uses water. Wait two hours and look at the meter again — if you notice a change in the reading, you likely have a leak.
Check Your Monthly Water Usage
During the colder months of the year, it’s important to keep a close eye on your water usage. As a rule of thumb, each family of four uses approximately 12,000 gallons per month or about 3,000 gallons per person. If you’re exceeding this usage, you likely have hidden leaks in your home and you need to call a licensed plumber near you.
Examine Your Plumbing
A great way to check for invisible leaks is to get up close and personal with your plumbing. Give your pipe fittings and faucet gaskets a visual inspection and keep an eye out for water or moisture on the inside. If you notice any, you have a leaky fixture or pipe. Regardless, you should seek professional assistance as soon as possible.
Test Your Toilets
Start by placing a few drops of food coloring in your toilet tank. Now, wait half an hour without flushing and check the color of the water in the bowl — if it’s tinted, you have a hidden leak!
Keep an Eye Out for Warning Signs
Check for warning signs such as:
- Persistent odor of mold or mildew
- Water stains on your walls, ceilings, or floors
- A decrease in water pressure
- Puddles in your yard
- Foundation cracks
If you’re in the Victorville, Hesperia or Apple Valley area and think you have invisible leaks, our Roto-Rooter team can connect you with a licensed plumber near you. Our team understands how to properly diagnose your plumbing and septic problems and ensure that your system is up to speed.
Contact us today at 760-245-2947 for more information or to request our services.
