How to Find and Fix Water Leaks in Your Home
Have you ever opened your water bill and wondered, “Why is it so high?” Or noticed a mysterious damp spot on your wall. These could be signs of hidden water leaks. Today, we’ll discuss how to find and fix water leaks in your home and what to do about them.
You can schedule your Plumbing appointment with Western Heating, Air & Plumbing by calling (801) 218-2187 or contacting us online. After all, you have a partner in Western.
Step 1: Check Your Water Meter
First, let’s see if you have a leak. Turn off all the water in your house—faucets, washing machines, everything. Now, locate your water meter. It’s usually outside, near the curb, or in a utility area. Take a look at the meter reading, then wait about an hour without using any water. If the reading changes, you’ve got a leak.
Step 2: Inspect Your Toilets
Did you know toilets are common culprits for hidden leaks? Here’s a simple test: Add a few drops of food coloring to the toilet tank. Wait about 10 minutes without flushing. If the color shows up in the bowl, you have a leak between the tank and the bowl. It’s time to fix that flapper or call in the pros.
Step 3: Examine Faucets and Showerheads
Drip, drip, drip—that sound can drive anyone crazy and waste a ton of water. Check all your faucets and showerheads for drips. Even a slow drip can add up over time. Most of the time, a worn-out washer or O-ring is to blame, and you can replace these pretty easily with basic tools.
Step 4: Look for Hidden Pipe Leaks
Some leaks aren’t obvious. Keep an eye out for these signs:
- Stains on Ceilings or Walls: Brownish spots can mean a pipe is leaking above or behind that area.
- Musty Smells: Persistent dampness leads to mold, which smells musty.
- Floor Damage: Warped or buckling floors can indicate a leak underneath.
If you spot any of these, it’s best to call a professional to pinpoint and fix the issue.
If you discover a leak, don’t panic—but don’t ignore it, either. Even small leaks can turn into costly water damage if left unaddressed. Here’s what you should do:
Turn Off the Water
The first step is stopping the leak from getting worse. Locate your main water shut-off valve and turn it off—this will prevent more water from flowing and causing further damage. Your shut-off valve is usually located near your home’s foundation, in the basement, or outside near your water meter. If you’re unsure where it is, check out our video on how to find it and shut it off. It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with this valve before you have an emergency, so you’re not scrambling to find it when water is already pooling on the floor.
Fix What You Can
Some leaks are simple to fix. A dripping faucet or a running toilet can often be fixed with basic tools and a quick trip to the hardware store. If it’s a leaky pipe under the sink, tightening a loose connection or replacing a worn washer might do the trick. For small pipe leaks, you can use plumber’s tape or a temporary patch kit until a permanent fix is in place. If you’re comfortable making these minor repairs, go for it—but if anything seems too complex, it’s best to leave it to the pros.
Call the Professionals
If the leak is behind a wall, under the floor, or affecting your home’s main water line, it’s time to call an expert. Left untreated, plumbing leaks in hidden areas can cause mold, structural damage, and higher water bills. A professional plumber has the tools and experience to find the exact source of the leak and fix it properly before it leads to bigger problems.
Addressing leaks quickly can save you money, prevent water damage, and keep your home running smoothly. If you’re unsure or need help, don’t hesitate to call us at (801) 218-2187 or visit our website at www.WesternHeatingAir.com. We’ll take care of the problem so you can get back to enjoying your home—leak-free!
