Leaks are a common problem in homes, but they can be difficult to locate. They can lead to expensive repairs and a high water bill, so it’s important to identify them early.
One of the most effective ways to find leaks in your home is by checking your water meter. The meter usually has a small indicator wheel that rotates when it detects water flow.
Check the Water Meter
Your water meter is one of the most important tools you have for checking for leaks in your home. This can save you money and protect your home from serious damage.
Some meters have a flow indicator that displays the amount of water being used in gallons per minute. If you are seeing movement on this indicator, it is likely a leak.
Another type of meter has an electronic digital display. This indicates the amount of water used in gallons (or cubic feet) and alternates between those numbers.
This meter will also have an odometer, sweep hand, and leak indicator. The odometer and sweep hand will only move when there is a large change in water flow, while the leak indicator will usually move with small changes.
Check Your Water Heater
Water heaters are a common appliance in the home, and they can last for years. Still, these appliances aren’t immune to leaking problems.
Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to ensure your heater does not cause a leak in your home. These steps can help you detect a leak early and stop it before it causes damage.
If your water heater is leaking, you should shut off the incoming water supply to your unit immediately. Find the valve above the tank, which may be a lever or a dial (gate valve).
This will stop the flow of incoming water and prevent any damage from forming. Next, check the drain valve and T&P valve to see if they are leaking. If they are, contact a plumbing professional to repair them. A plumber in Canberra can inspect and help you with all your plumbing problems.
Check Your Washing Machine
If your washing machine is leaking water, it may be due to a faulty drain hose or a connection. These are a common reason for leaks, and they’re easy to fix.
First, check the drain hose and drain pipe to see if they’re in good shape. If they’re not, refer to your appliance’s user manual for how to properly position them inside the drain standpipe.
Next, look for a leak around the water pump. This component has several seals that can crack or break over time, allowing water to leak from the washer’s casing during the drain cycle.
If these solutions don’t help, it’s time to call in a repair technician for a professional diagnosis. A licensed technician can also replace a faulty pump, if needed.
Check Your Dishwasher
If you’re noticing puddles of water coming from your dishwasher after each use, it may be time to check your appliance for leaks. A leak in your dishwasher can damage the floor underneath, so it’s best to address it as soon as possible.
Over time, hoses and valves inside your dishwasher can become weak or damaged. You can try replacing these parts with new ones to prevent future leaks.
The spray arms, which circulate water around the dishwasher during wash cycles, can also cause a leak if they are cracked or broken. Give them all a good cleaning and check that they sit properly in the spray arm housing.
A faulty door latch can also cause water to escape from your dishwasher. Make sure the latch is tight and replace it if necessary. The rubber gasket that seals the door can also be a problem if it’s loose or damaged.
Check Under the Sink
One of the best ways to catch a leak is to regularly peek under your kitchen and laundry sinks. This will help you see if any moisture is building up in the back of the cabinets, which can be a sign of a problem that will need professional attention soon.
A leaky sink trap or P-trap can go undetected for a long time, until it causes major damage and mold problems. Taking the time to check these areas on a regular basis will save you money and keep your home safe from damage.
You can do this by putting a bucket under your sink and checking to make sure the drain is clear. Then use a cleaning rag to clean out any gunk or clogs in the trap. Once you’re sure it’s clear, reinstall the P-trap.
