HOW TO DETECT A LEAK IN PLUMBINGSYSTEMS

A leak in the plumbing system is not only anannoying problem, but it can also become quitecostly as it can drastically increase the waterbill. As well, a small leak that is not repairedpromptly can eventually develop into anexpensive repair job. To avoid water waste andan expensive repair bill, it is important to knowhow to detect leaks in the plumbing system.

Introduction

Below is a helpful guide on how to detect a leak in plumbing systems:

1

If you have copper pipes, it is easy to check for leaks inthese pipes. When examining your copper pipes, youwill be able to identify a leak by a white circle that willhave formed around the area of the pipe that isleaking.

2

You can check to see if there is a leak in the plumbingby checking your water meter. Turn off all of the tapsand then check the water meter. If the water meter isstill moving, this could suggest that there is a leak.

3

There are places in the home that should be checkedfor a leak. Places to check to see if there is a leakinclude water dripping around showerheads, a toiletthat is constantly running when not in use, waterdripping from faucets, chronic sewer backups, foulodors, high water bills, cracked and moist foundationor concrete, moist spots under the carpets, moist ordiscolored walls, floors, and ceilings, and mold andmildew growth.

4

An effective way to check for leaks in your plumbingsystem is to perform a silent leak test in your toilet. Youcan use a red dye from a plumbing supplier or red foodcoloring. You just have to make sure the water in thetoilet and tank is clear. Then, add the dye to the watertank and wait 30 minutes. If the water in the toiletbowl has turned red, then you have a toilet leak.

Conclusion

If you do not get a plumbing leak repaired, over timethe leak will get worse and you could end up with a bigmessy repair job, especially if a sewer backs up andspills in the basement, which will end up being veryexpensive to fix. As part of a home maintenanceprogram, the plumbing system should be regularly leakdetection. If you have discovered a plumbing systemleak, it is wise to contact a professional plumber whowill be able to repair the leak properly and end upsaving you much more money than if you had justignored the leak.