Signs of Water Leaks
Water leaks are one of the most common causes of rising water bills, structural water damage, and mold growth. Many leaks remain hidden until they cause visible damage, making early water leak detection critical. Learning the signs of a water leak and knowing how to identify leaks are vital in preventing unnecessary costs and stress.
High Water Bills
A sudden increase in a water bill is often the first indication of a hidden water leak that requires immediate attention. Ignoring a high water bill can lead to continual water loss, greater structural water damage, and escalating repair bills over time.
If high water bills persist from month to month, but there is no apparent explanation, this is a strong warning of a leak somewhere in the plumbing system. Even a small leak can waste hundreds or thousands of gallons each month, quickly driving up costs.
Taking action at the first sign of an unexpectedly high water bill by scheduling water leak detection can prevent significant future expenses and headaches.
Other Signs of a Leak
Besides water bills, homeowners should be aware of other physical and sensory signs that reveal the presence of a water leak.
- Low Water Pressure: If faucets, showerheads, or other fixtures experience weak water pressure, a leak may be diverting water before it reaches the fixture.
- Running Water Sounds With Fixtures Off: If homeowners hear water running inside walls, floors, or ceilings when all fixtures are turned off, this points to an active water leak behind surfaces.
- Mold or Mildew Growth: Unexplained patches of mold or mildew, especially away from bathrooms or kitchens, often result from lingering moisture due to a water leak. Mold can pose health risks and compound water damage.
- Water Stains or Damage: Stains, discoloration, warped floors, bubbling paint, or soft spots in walls, ceilings, or floors are classic signs of ongoing water leaks. These can indicate extensive hidden water damage that requires urgent leak repair.
- Musty Odors: Persistent musty or damp smells are signs that water is accumulating somewhere unseen, creating an ideal environment for mold and bacteria from an unresolved leak.
- Visible Puddles or Dampness: Pooled water or unexplained damp areas, especially around toilets, tubs, behind appliances, or in the basement, are direct evidence of a current water leak.
Spotting these signs early and calling for professional leak detection can minimize water damage, mold growth, and repair costs.
Use the Water Meter
The water meter serves as a powerful tool for confirming a water leak, even when other visible or auditory signs are missing. Start by shutting off all water in the home, including faucets, appliances, sprinklers, and more. Ensure that no one uses water during the test.
Homeowners can record the current water meter reading, wait 30–60 minutes without using any water, and then recheck the reading. If the number increases, this signals a water leak somewhere in the plumbing system. Regularly checking the water meter can help identify leaks before they cause significant water damage or result in substantial fluctuations on the water bill.
Most modern water meters also have a small leak indicator dial or triangle. If this indicator is spinning while all water is off, a leak is highly likely. If the meter test suggests a leak or if any signs listed above are present, homeowners should call a plumber for water leak detection and prompt leak repair. This simple test offers peace of mind and can help prevent major water damage in the long run.
About The Meridian Company
The Meridian Company partners with leading manufacturers to provide clients with the products they need, installed to code by their professional team. They offer flexible scheduling and upfront pricing. Call now for water leak repair in East Lansing, MI.
