How To Spot an Underground Water Leak

Three Ways To Find and Fix a Hidden Water Leak

Homeowners should not take hidden pipe leaks lightly. They need to act quickly to preserve their home’s structural integrity. Once someone discovers an underground water leak, the problem’s been happening for quite some time. 

Hidden water leaks are more common in areas where earthquakes or serious weather events (such as blizzards) are common. They’re also prone to happen in houses that are decades old, as these homes typically have older plumbing systems. If a homeowner even suspects a water line leak, they should reach out to a plumbing company as soon as possible. The longer one waits, the more they risk irreversible damage. 

Know the Signs To Look For water bill

Some signs of an underground water leak are similar to leaks under sinks, toilets, and AC systems. Some signs of hidden leaks include: 
  • Poor water pressure 
  • Foul odors coming from a drain 
  • Higher-than-usual water bills 
  • Soggy or swampy parts of the yard
  • Sinkholes 
  • Clogs or backed-up drains 

A professional familiar with underground plumbing systems can assess a situation, determine the cause of a leak, and remedy the problem. 

Monitor the Home’s Water Meter 

Whether built 100 years ago or last week, every home has a water meter. These devices share how much water a home consumes in a given period. If one’s water meter increases each day, despite no noticeable change in water consumption, this could point to an underlying problem. 

Here’s how homeowners can check their water meters to see whether they have a hidden water leak: 

  • Check the number on the water meter: Many water meters have dials that look like watch faces. Homeowners should find the number and write it down. 
  • Turn off the home’s water supply: One should do this at the beginning of the day, preferably when no one’s home. 
  • Check the water meter at the end of the day: There likely isn’t a hidden leak if the number stays the same. However, if that number increased (even slightly) during the day, this could point to an underground leak. 

A water leak repair service could also check the home’s water meter and explain whether there’s any cause for concern. 

Reach Out to a Water Line Leak Detection Service professional

Finding and fixing a water line leak isn’t a DIY project. It’s something that requires a professional’s insight. When a professional is called about a potential hidden leak, they will: 

  • Inspect the home’s appliances, such as the air conditioning unit and water main 
  • Use specialized software to detect any underground leaks 
  • Turn off the water main and check the water meter 
  • Check the plumbing system’s overall integrity 

A water leak repair service may employ additional measures to those listed here. 

About RCL Mechanical 

RCL Mechanical is a locally-owned and operated business that provides unbeatable plumbing and air services to its neighbors in Taunton, MA, and the surrounding areas. They offer flat-rate pricing, 24/7 availability, and a rewarding membership plan. Call them today for plumbing services in Taunton, MA.

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