How to Locate a Hidden Water Leak.

Leaky faucets and shower heads are easy to spot and fix.

But what about hidden water leaks…the kind that can cause serious damage?  These are among the most common:

• Refrigerator – If you have a built-in icemaker, wet spots on the floor might indicate a crimped icemaker line…one that’s just waiting to burst. Also, the smaller the water accumulation behind your fridge, the more damaging the problem can be.  So, periodically move your fridge away from the wall to check for leaks. If you spot one, have it repaired right away. That’s because water can seep through your floor and moulding into sub-flooring and ceilings below and cause significant damage.
• Toilets – The water you don’t see is the water that can hurt you. Small leaks can head straight to your sub-flooring and, over time, rot the wood. Also, if you notice that the water level in your toilet tank keeps dropping, you probably have a hairline crack in it. To find out for sure, pour a drop or two of food colouring into the tank and, about 30 minutes later, check the toilet bowl. If it’s tinted with the same colour, you have a leak.
• Water Heater – Wet spots on the floor indicate a water leak, most likely caused by internal rust or an overfull drain pan. Once corrosion sets in within the tank, chances are it will need to be replaced.

One final bit of advice.  Every now and then, turn off all faucets and water-using appliances, and don’t flush your toilets for at least one hour.  Next, record the water meter reading.  If the flow indicator (rotating button) is spinning or the meter reading changes while no water is being used, that’s another sign of a hidden water leak.

Ultimately, the best way to fix a leak is to find it before damage strikes!  And the best way to accomplish that is with a house-wide plumbing inspection by Your 1 Plumber. Contact us today to schedule service and give yourself one less thing to worry about.