How To Find A Water Leak In The House
Plumbing problems, especially water leaks, are pretty common in homes—and if you don’t tackle them quickly, they can cause some serious (and pricey) damage. Think walls, floors, even the foundation of your house. Some leaks are easy to spot, like dripping faucets or stains on the ceiling. But others?Â
They’re sneaky, hiding behind walls or under floors, and you’ll probably need a pro to find them. In this blog, we’ll walk you through some common signs of water leaks, like sudden spikes in your water bill, musty smells, or hearing running water when everything’s off. Catching these early can save you a ton of money and keep your home in good shape!
Stains On Walls
Water leaks can leave your walls and ceiling looking discolored and stained, which isn’t just an eyesore—it can also mean structural trouble. If you spot stains on your walls or ceiling, there’s a good chance you’ve got a hidden leak somewhere, maybe behind the drywall or up in the attic. These stains might even come with mold, which often shows up as dark spots and can be a health hazard thanks to allergens and toxins.Â
Mold spreads fast if ignored, making things worse for both your home and your health. That’s why it’s so important to act quickly—investigate and fix the problem to keep your home safe and comfortable.
Appliance Leaks
Appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, and even refrigerators with ice makers can be sneaky culprits of water leaks. Over time, their hoses and drain lines can wear out, leading to small leaks that you might not even notice until they cause serious damage. If you’re dealing with water leaks, it’s worth having your appliances checked out by the experts at professional appliance repair in Sacramento to see if they’re the cause.
Water Heaters Leaks
Water heater leaks are pretty common but often go unnoticed. Over time, your water heater can wear out and rust from the inside, leading to small leaks that are easy to miss. If you ever notice a puddle of water near the bottom of your water heater, it’s a good idea to check for leaks.Â
Sometimes, it’s as simple as a loose pressure-relief valve—just tighten it up, and you might solve the problem! Need help? Check out our water heater services.
How to Diagnose a Hidden Water Leak
Some leaks can be tricky to spot, especially the ones hiding behind walls, under floors, or even in your yard. They’re often caused by old pipes, shifting foundations, or extreme weather. So how do you know if you’ve got a sneaky leak?Â
Watch out for these signs: a sudden spike in your water bill, musty smells, or random lush patches in your lawn. If you notice any of these, it’s time to act fast. Here’s how you can track down those hidden water leaks:
Unexpected Increase in Your Water Bill
A sudden spike in your monthly water bill is often the first sign of a water leak. This unexplained increase could indicate an issue within your plumbing system, leading to excessive water usage and higher costs. If your water bill rises significantly without any changes in household habits or usage, it's crucial to investigate further.
Musty Odors
Musty odors are a common sign of potential water leaks. When moisture seeps into walls or floors due to a hidden leak, it creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew, resulting in musty smells. These unpleasant odors can occur even without visible water damage. If you notice such odors in your home, it's important to have a professional plumber examine for possible leaks.
Unusual Yard Growth
Outdoor leaks can be easily overlooked, as leaks outside the home are often unexpected. Plumbing leaks might occur in outdoor pipes running through your yard. Inspect your yard for signs of water seeping or pooling water. If one area of your lawn appears greener than the rest, you may have a water leakage issue in your sewer pipe.
You Found a Leak, Now What?
Got a water leak at home? Don’t wait—acting fast can save you from bigger headaches later. Here’s what to do:Â
- Turn off the water supply: Find your home’s main shut-off valve and turn it off right away to stop the water and prevent more damage.Â
- Call a plumber: This isn’t the time for DIY fixes. A licensed plumber can figure out what’s going on and handle the repair properly.Â
- Document the damage: Snap some photos or take a quick video of the leak and any damage. It’ll come in handy for insurance claims.Â
If you’re in the Greater Sacramento area, give Fix it Rite a call. We offer water leak detection and restoration services for your plumbing, water heaters and your major appliances. Contact us today to get started.