How To Detect and Fix Water Leaks in Your Home

Not all water leaks are easy to see or hear. Some can be hard to detect, covertly hidden inside walls, vanities or ceilings. These leaks become increasingly dangerous, as the longer a drip persists without detection, the more harm it can do to your home. Early water leak detection can prevent more expensive issues down the road, like costly structural damage or mold growth.

Common Reasons for Water Leaks

• Clogged drains
• Leaking pipes
• Worn-out seals and washers
• Loose fittings
• Corrosion
• Malfunctioning water heaters
• Washing machines, dishwashers, refrigerators or other plumbing appliance malfunctions, like damaged hoses or connections

How to Detect Water Leaks

• Visible Stains: Look for discolored spots or patches on ceilings or floors, as these can indicate water infiltration.

• Dripping Sounds: Listen for dripping or running water sounds, especially when no faucets or appliances are being used.

• Mold or Mildew: Mold or mildew in your bathroom or laundry room might signal a hidden water leak.

• Inspect Walls: Gently press and feel your walls and ceilings for soft spots, which may indicate water damage.

• Unpleasant Odors: Musty or damp odors in certain areas of your home can indicate moisture accumulation from a leak.

• Increased Water Bills: A sudden unexplained increase in your water bill could point to an undetected leak.

What If I Still Can’t Find the Leak?

Even with careful vigilance, you might not be able to see a stain if a leak is well hidden, such as behind an appliance or underneath cabinets. In cases where you can’t locate the leak but suspect there is one, turn off all water sources in your home, including faucets, appliances and irrigation systems. If the reading on the meter has changed after a few hours, despite all the water being shut off, it indicates a leak somewhere in your plumbing system.

Installing water leak detectors in areas prone to leaks, such as basements, crawl spaces and near appliances, can also help alert you to potential leaks you might not have noticed on your own.

If you're unable to locate the hidden leak or suspect a more complex issue, it's best to hire a professional plumber or water damage restoration specialist, as they have the tools and expertise to find any leak, no matter how well hidden. Early detection and timely repairs are crucial to minimizing damage from hidden leaks. Regular maintenance and vigilant observation can help you catch leaks before they escalate into larger and more expensive problems.

What to Do When You Find the Water Leak

Turn off the water supply to the affected area and, if it’s safe and possible to do so, clean up any surrounding spills.

Although you can fix minor leaks on your own using pipe sealants or repair tape, it may not be feasible for a DIYer to effectively mitigate larger leaks or significant structural damage. If a leak has become a more complex problem that has caused serious damage to your home, it’s best to contact a professional plumber to ensure the issue is repaired properly. The professionals at Tom’s Mechanical have the tools and experience necessary to address the issue and prevent more leaks in the future.

How Can I Prevent Water Leaks?

Awareness is key to preventing a leak. Check for leaks in pipes, faucets and fixtures. If some components look rusted, corroded or otherwise damaged, address them promptly. You should also regularly inspect sinks, showers, tubs and other areas with caulking and grouting. If you see any cracks or gaps, re-caulk or regrout them promptly to maintain a watertight seal and prevent water leaks.

Even the most vigilant homeowners who proactively implement preventative measures can experience leaks from time to time. If you notice any signs of a leak, address it or call a professional immediately to prevent further damage. Don't delay water leak repairs or ignore potential issues, as small leaks have the potential to escalate into more substantial problems.

Get Help Quickly From Dependable Arlington Plumbing Experts Who Are Available 24/7

At Tom’s Mechanical Inc., we’ve been fixing leaks for Arlington residents since 1960. Our skilled plumbers are ready to help with reliable 24/7 emergency services, going above and beyond to repair your leak as quickly as possible. Call (817) 277-4493 or explore our website today to learn more about how we can help.