Most homeowners recognize that leaks in the home are a significant issue but do not take the time to search for signs of leaks. Plumbing leaks can occur both in the home or the water system outside the property but often are not apparent. Some leaks are simple to repair, while others are complicated and expensive, so actively looking for leaks and signs of leaks is crucial.

Leaks may result in mold, mildew, and structural issues. Some signs of leaking are stains around a pipe or water source or a severe increase in the water bill. Even minor leaks can cause substantial damage, so homeowners should know what signs to look out for.

Indoor leaks

When checking for interior leaking, the best area to start is with fixtures and appliances. Toilets are a common location for leaks and can be challenging to detect. When looking for leaks, start in the most common leak areas—the toilet, shower and bath, sinks, and flooring.

Check the kitchen and bathroom floors

Among the most effective approaches to look for leaks in the bathroom and kitchen area is to look at the floor. Discolored, curling, or loosened flooring are all signs of a leak. Shower doors in the bathroom can leak, creating severe problems if left undetected over an extended period.

Check the shower door

To determine if the shower door leaks, stand inside the shower with the door shut and direct a stream of water toward the door and framework. If there is water anywhere outside the shower, there is a leak. Simply replacing the floor sweep or re-caulking the door may resolve the issue.

Check the tub drains

The connection of the drain to the bottom of the tub can shift and separate, causing water to trickle from the drain and onto the floor below. Showers or bathtubs that are fiberglass, plastic, or have shower pans are particularly at risk of these kinds of leaks since these products can flex.

To check for this kind of leak, purchase a test plug. Fill the bathtub with enough water to cover the drain, put in the plug, then wait. If the plug shrinks, there is likely a leak that can indicate replacing a gasket, re-caulking, or even replacing the drain itself.

Check faucets and sinks

Faucets and sinks can also leak. Faucets generally drip, so the leak is apparent, and usually, a new o-ring solves the problem.

Sinks frequently leak around the rim, damaging counters and cabinets. Check for discoloration or wetness inside the sink cabinet or near the sink base if it’s of the pedestal variety. If everything seems normal, look for worn-out caulk, pieces of countertop around the sink, or loosened faucet bases for water. Take a sponge and squeeze water into the sink’s rim. After a few minutes, check for fresh dampness under the sink and in the cabinet. If water is inside the cabinet, re-caulking can repair this type of leak.

The plumbing beneath a sink may also leak. Run a dry cloth over the hot and cold water supply lines under the sink to examine for plumbing leaks. Fill the sink up, then remove the plug. Take a fresh, dry towel to run it over the supply lines again. Any signs of wetness mean there’s a leak. These leaks typically indicate a fitting or supply line needs replacing.

Homeowners can turn to their trusted plumbing professional for help determining the cause of excessive water use in their homes.

If you need an honest, dependable plumber in the Phoenix, Mesa, Tempe or Chandler area, call Jimmy at 480-757-1273.