Let’s say you’ve found yourself with unexplainable high water bills. Naturally, your water bills will change each month, depending on how much you use certain plumbing fixtures (for instance, you won’t be using your irrigation system in the dead of winter!) But when your utility bills spike for no reason, it’s time to take a close look at what’s going on with your plumbing.
But can you detect a leak on your own? Well, yes and no, which we’ll get to in a moment. First, it’s important that you understand why even the smallest leak is actually a pretty big deal. The US EPA states that a faucet leaking at just one drop per second wastes 3,000 gallons of water per year. And considering that a “small” leak can happen anywhere along your water lines—including underneath your slab or behind walls—this can be detrimental to your home and your water bills.
Self-Detection
So, what if you do suspect you have a leak? As we said, you can detect a leak on your own, but at the same time, not really. We say that because even though you can figure out on your own that you have a leak, it takes professional Glenview, IL leak detection services to determine where that leak is coming from. Still though, we’re happy to share some tips with you below to help you figure out if you do in fact have a leak, before giving us a call.
Shut Your Water Off
The first thing you’ll need to do to perform self-detection is to shut off all your plumbing fixtures in your home. We don’t usually suggest using the main shut-off valve, as this won’t help you find a leak that’s coming from a pipe within your home. Instead, you need a thorough check of anything that uses water, which is what our team can assist with.
Ensure that you let your household know you’re doing this so that nobody unknowingly uses any faucets or toilets while you’re checking for a leak. Make sure ever fixture and appliance is off, including system such as your:
- Irrigation
- Water Filter
- Dishwasher
- Ice Maker
Read Your Water Meter
Now’s the time to reach your meter. Check the flow indicator—a small rotating dial that moves even if there is only a small amount of water flowing. If all your plumbing fixtures are off, and the wheel is still moving, then you have a leak.
However, keep in mind that this won’t tell you how much water is leaking, or again, where that leak is coming from.
When Call a Plumber
As we stated, detecting a leak on your own won’t help you determine where that leak is coming from. In some cases, homeowners can spot the problem through moist spots on the property, or the sound of rushing water from behind a wall. For the most part, however, you’ll need a professional with the right type of equipment to determine just what’s going on.
For expert plumbing service, installations, or maintenance contact Reliance Plumbing Sewer & Drainage, Inc. Our knowledgeable plumbers serve the North Shore and Northwest Chicago suburbs. Rely on Reliance!