Often times, a plumbing leak is just the beginning of a bigger problem or a sign of an existing problem such as cracked or damaged pipes. If left unaddressed, plumbing leaks can quickly worse and lead to structural damage or high water bills. Unfortunately, plumbing leaks often go too long undetected. To help you catch plumbing leaks before they become major plumbing problems; here are a few tips for detecting leaks. 

1. Stop And Listen

This simple action can be one of the easiest ways to determine if there’s a leak. Listen carefully around your house for any sounds of dripping water, particularly in rooms with plumbing fixtures such as the kitchen or bathroom. Sounds of running water or sounds that resemble water dropping into a puddle when water is turned off are another indication of a leak. Try to stop and listen for leaks a couple times a day, preferably when the house is quiet.

2. Do A Visual Inspection

Just because you don’t hear dripping water, doesn’t mean there can’t be a leak. Take a moment to go around and do a visual inspection for signs of a leak. Some of the most common signs of a leak include dripping water, mildew, rust, resting water, corrosion, warped wood, damp carpet, or water damage on the walls. 

Some of the best places to check for leaks include:

• Under kitchen or bathroom sinks
• Faucets
• Shower heads or bathtub faucets
• Water hoses for appliances in the kitchen or laundry room
• Toilets
• Exposed pipes 
• Pipe fittings
• Sprinkler systems
• Outdoor hose faucets

3. Don’t Ignore Strange Smells

Leaks in hidden areas can be difficult to see or hear, but if they go on long enough mold and mildew can begin to grow. If you notice musty or abnormal smells in your walls or flooring, be sure to have your home inspected for a potential water leak.

4. Check Your Water Meter

The water meter for your home is an effective and tangible way to confirm hidden plumbing leaks. The water meter is a small plastic box typically located on the side of the house or in the backyard. Go around the house and turn off all water fixtures and any appliances that use water. Then go out to your water meter and record the number displayed. Do not use any water for the next 30-45 minutes and then go back out to the water meter and check the number. If the number is higher than it was 30 minutes ago, its highly likely that you have a plumbing leak.

5. Compare Your Water Bills

Water bills are another way to confirm the suspicion of a leak. Check your water bills for the past few months, looking for usage amounts and total bill amounts. If your current water bill and water consumption are higher than the average amount, you may have a water leak. 

Silver State Refrigeration, HVAC & Plumbing provides high quality plumbing services for Las Vegas and surrounding areas. For any plumbing repair or concern, or to schedule an appointment for a plumbing leak call us today at (702) 433-5008.