Signs of a water leak in your home and how to address it

🚰 Drip, drip, drip... That faint sound might be more than just a minor annoyance—it could be the telltale sign of a hidden water leak in your home. Left unchecked, these sneaky leaks can lead to skyrocketing water bills, structural damage, and even health hazards from mold growth. But how can you tell if you're dealing with a leak, especially if it's underground?

Don't let the uncertainty keep you up at night! In this post, we'll dive into the world of water leaks, revealing the insider secrets to spotting them both inside and outside your home. We'll equip you with two simple DIY tests to pinpoint potential problems and guide you on when it's time to call in the professionals. Whether you're a vigilant homeowner or simply curious about protecting your property, this guide will help you stay one step ahead of costly water damage. 💧🔍

So, are you ready to become a leak-detecting pro? Let's explore the signs of water leaks, starting with the subtle clues hiding right under your nose inside your home...

Signs inside your home that you have a water leak underground

Unexplained Increase in Water Bills

One of the most common indicators of an underground water leak is a sudden and unexplained increase in your water bills. If you notice your bills rising without a corresponding increase in water usage, it's time to investigate further.

Normal Bill	Increased Bill	Potential Leak
$50-$100	$150-$200+	Likely
Consistent	Fluctuating	Possible

Damp or Wet Spots on Floors

Keep an eye out for damp or wet spots on your floors, especially in basements or ground-level rooms. These could indicate water seeping up from underground leaks.

Mold or Mildew Growth

Underground water leaks can create ideal conditions for mold and mildew growth. Look for:

• Musty odors

• Visible mold on walls or floors

• Discoloration on surfaces

Decreased Water Pressure

A significant drop in water pressure throughout your home can be a sign of a leak. This occurs when water escapes from the system before reaching your taps.

Sound of Running Water

If you hear the sound of running water when all taps are turned off, it could indicate a hidden leak. Pay special attention to:

• Walls

• Floors

• Areas near water-using appliances

Cracks in Foundation

Water leaks can compromise your home's foundation. Look for:

• New cracks in walls or floors

• Uneven settling of your home

Now that we've covered the signs inside your home, let's explore the indicators you might find outside your property.

Signs outside of your home that you have a water leak underground

Visible Puddles or Wet Spots

One of the most obvious signs of an underground water leak outside your home is the presence of unexplained puddles or consistently wet spots in your yard. These areas may remain damp even during dry weather, indicating a potential leak beneath the surface.

Lush Vegetation Patches

Unusually green or overgrown patches of grass or plants in your lawn can be a telltale sign of a water leak. The excess water from the leak acts as a constant source of irrigation, causing certain areas to thrive more than others.

Sinkholes or Depressions

Water leaks can erode the soil underneath, leading to the formation of sinkholes or noticeable depressions in your yard. These can range from small dips to more significant collapses, depending on the severity of the leak.

Increased Water Bill

While not a visible outdoor sign, an unexplained spike in your water bill can indicate a hidden leak. This is especially true if you haven't changed your water usage habits.

Sign	Possible Cause	Action Required
Puddles	Underground pipe leak	Inspect and repair
Lush Patches	Constant water supply	Check for pipe damage
Sinkholes	Soil erosion due to leak	Professional assessment
High Water Bill	Hidden water loss	Leak detection service

Strange Sounds or Pressure Changes

Listen for unusual sounds like hissing or gurgling near outdoor pipes or faucets. Additionally, changes in water pressure can indicate a leak in your system.

Next, we'll explore some DIY tests you can perform to confirm the presence of a water leak and potentially locate its source.

Two DIY tests to help you know if (and where) you have a water leak

How to test for a main water line leak

To determine if you have a main water line leak, follow these simple steps:

1. Turn off all water-using appliances and fixtures in your home

2. Locate your water meter

3. Record the initial meter reading

4. Wait for 30 minutes without using any water

5. Check the meter reading again

If the meter reading has changed, you likely have a leak in your main water line.

Step	Action	Time
1	Turn off water fixtures	5 minutes
2	Locate water meter	2 minutes
3	Record initial reading	1 minute
4	Wait	30 minutes
5	Check final reading	1 minute

Determine if the main water line leak inside or outside of your home

Once you've confirmed a leak, pinpointing its location is crucial. Here's how:

1. Shut off the main water valve to your house

2. Check the meter reading

3. Wait for 30 minutes

4. Check the meter reading again

If the reading hasn't changed, the leak is likely inside your home. If it has changed, the leak is probably outside.

How to test for a sewer line leak

Detecting a sewer line leak requires a different approach:

• Look for wet spots or foul odors in your yard

• Check for slow-draining fixtures or gurgling sounds

• Inspect your basement or crawl space for water seepage

• Use food coloring in toilets to check for silent leaks

If you suspect a sewer line leak, it's best to contact a professional plumber for a thorough inspection and repair. These DIY tests can help you identify potential issues, but expert assistance ensures proper resolution and prevents further damage to your property.

Want a licensed plumber in Commerce Texas to find and fix your water leak? Call EZFlow Plumbing Solutions Today!

Professional Leak Detection and Repair

When it comes to water leaks, professional assistance is often the best course of action. EZFlow Plumbing Solutions in Commerce, Texas, offers expert leak detection and repair services that can save you time, money, and stress.

Why Choose EZFlow Plumbing Solutions?

• Licensed and insured professionals

• State-of-the-art leak detection equipment

• Prompt and reliable service

• Comprehensive repair solutions

Our Leak Detection Process

1. Initial assessment

2. Non-invasive leak detection techniques

3. Pinpoint accuracy in locating leaks

4. Detailed report and repair recommendations

Repair Options

Type of Leak	Repair Method	Estimated Time
Pipe Leak	Pipe replacement or repair	2-4 hours
Slab Leak	Rerouting or epoxy lining	4-8 hours
Fixture Leak	Seal replacement or fixture upgrade	1-2 hours

Don't let water leaks compromise your home's integrity or increase your water bills. Contact EZFlow Plumbing Solutions today for a thorough inspection and professional repair. Our team is ready to address your plumbing needs efficiently and effectively, ensuring your peace of mind.

Detecting water leaks early is crucial for protecting your home and avoiding costly repairs. By being vigilant and looking for signs both inside and outside your house, you can identify potential leaks before they cause significant damage. Simple DIY tests can help pinpoint the source of the problem, allowing you to take swift action.

However, when dealing with complex plumbing issues, it's always best to rely on professional expertise. If you suspect a water leak in your Commerce, Texas home, don't hesitate to contact EZFlow Plumbing Solutions. Their licensed plumbers have the skills and tools necessary to accurately locate and repair leaks, ensuring your home remains safe and dry. Take control of your home's plumbing health today by staying alert to potential issues and seeking professional help when needed.