How to Detect Water Leaks in Your Home: Signs to Look Out For

Water leaks in your home are not just a nuisance; they are a silent destroyer of your property and wallet. Early leak detection is the key to avoiding costly repairs and conserving water. But how do you detect something that is often hidden from view? In this blog post, we’ll explore the common home water leak signs, the importance of early detection and steps to identify water leaks on your own.

Recognising Unexplained Increases in Your Water Bill

One of the first signs of a potential leak is an unexplained increase in your water bill. This can often go unnoticed until the problem has escalated. Here’s what to look out for:

• Comparison with Previous Bills: Keep an eye on your monthly water bill. A significant increase compared to previous months, without a corresponding increase in water usage, is a red flag.
• Seasonal Usage Patterns: Consider seasonal variations in water use. An increase during a season when water use is typically lower can indicate a leak.

Taking note of these changes can prompt a more detailed inspection of your home to identify any hidden leaks.

Mysterious Sounds of Running Water

Sometimes, the silence in your home can reveal the most about its condition. Unusual noises can be a sign of hidden leaks:

• Silent Hours: During the night or when the house is particularly quiet, listen for any sounds of running water or drips when no water is being used.
• Locate the Source: Try to follow the sound to its source. This can sometimes lead you directly to the problem.

Damp and Musty Smells in Rarely Visited Spaces

Damp and musty odour in spaces like basements, crawl spaces or storage rooms often indicate unseen water leaks.

Signs to Watch

• Persistent Odours: A musty smell that doesn’t go away with ventilation is a strong indicator of moisture problems.
• Visible Signs of Dampness: Look for water stains, warping or discolouration on walls, floors and ceilings.

Upon noticing these signs, it’s crucial to trace the source of moisture. Sometimes, it might be as simple as inadequate ventilation, but it can also be a symptom of a more significant, hidden leak.

Unusual Wet Spots in Your Garden or Yard

Unexplained soggy patches in your garden or an area of inexplicably greener grass can indicate an underground leak. These signs might be more prevalent after periods of dry weather, making them easier to spot. If these wet spots are not near a water source or after recent rain, they could be a clue to a leak in your service line or irrigation system.

Additionally, if you notice a significant drop in water pressure when using your outdoor taps or sprinkler system, it could further indicate a leak diverting water from where it should flow.

Persistent Mould or Mildew in Bathrooms and Kitchens

Mould and mildew thrive in moist environments and their presence, especially outside of typical areas like showers, can indicate a leak. Pay close attention to:

• Corners and Edges: Check where walls and floors meet, behind appliances and under sinks for any signs of mould or mildew.
• Ventilation: Poor ventilation can exacerbate the problem, but it may also mask an underlying leak as the cause.