How to Spot Hidden Plumbing Leaks in Your Home

1. Check Your Water Meter

Why It Works:
Your water meter can help detect leaks even when they’re not visible.

How to Check:

• Turn off all water-using appliances and fixtures in your home.
• Locate your water meter and note the reading.
• Wait 1–2 hours without using any water, then check the meter again.
• If the reading has changed, you may have a hidden leak.

2. Look for Unexplained Increases in Your Water Bill

Why It Matters:
A sudden spike in your water bill without any changes in water usage is a strong indicator of a leak.

What to Do:

• Compare your current bill with previous months.
• If the increase is significant, investigate further or call a plumber for an inspection.

3. Inspect for Water Stains and Damage

What to Look For:
Hidden leaks often leave behind stains, warped surfaces, or other signs of water damage.

Common Indicators:

• Yellow or brown stains on walls or ceilings.
• Peeling paint or wallpaper.
• Warped or buckling floors.

Tip:
Check areas near plumbing fixtures, like kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms.

4. Monitor for Musty Odors

Why It Happens:
Leaks can create damp areas that promote mold and mildew growth, leading to a musty smell.

What to Do:

• Sniff around areas where plumbing is located, such as under sinks or behind appliances.
• If you notice a persistent musty odor, it’s likely there’s excess moisture from a leak.

5. Listen for Unusual Sounds

What to Listen For:
Even small leaks can produce sounds like dripping, hissing, or running water.

Where to Listen:

• Near walls or floors where pipes are installed.
• Around water heaters or plumbing fixtures.

6. Test Your Toilet for Leaks

Why It Matters:
Toilets are a common source of hidden water leaks, especially if the flapper isn’t sealing properly.

How to Test:

• Add a few drops of food coloring to your toilet tank.
• Wait 15–20 minutes without flushing.
• If color appears in the bowl, your toilet is leaking.

7. Check Exterior Plumbing

What to Look For:
Hidden leaks aren’t confined to the inside of your home; outdoor plumbing can also be a culprit.

Common Signs:

• Water pooling near outdoor faucets or sprinkler systems.
• Unusually lush patches of grass in your yard.

8. Look for Signs of Low Water Pressure

Why It Happens:
A hidden leak can disrupt your water flow, causing a drop in pressure.

How to Check:

• Turn on your faucets and compare water pressure in different areas of your home.
• If one area has noticeably lower pressure, a hidden leak could be the cause.

9. Use Advanced Leak Detection Tools

Why It’s Effective:
Technology like infrared cameras and acoustic sensors can detect leaks behind walls or under floors without causing damage.

What to Do:

• Hire a professional plumber equipped with advanced leak detection tools for a thorough inspection.

10. Monitor Your Home’s Foundation

What to Look For:
Leaks in underground pipes can cause foundation cracks or shifts.

Common Indicators:

• Cracks in your walls or floors.
• Uneven floors or doors that no longer close properly.

Why Addressing Hidden Leaks Is Critical

Ignoring hidden leaks can lead to:

• High water bills.
• Structural damage to your home.
• Mold and mildew growth.
• Increased repair costs over time.

Professional Leak Detection Services in Richmond, BC

At Encano Plumbing and Drainage Ltd., we specialize in finding and fixing hidden plumbing leaks. Using advanced tools and years of expertise, we ensure your home is leak-free and protected from water damage.

Don’t let hidden leaks drain your wallet or damage your home! Contact us today for professional leak detection and repair services.