Understanding Water Leak Detection

Water Leak Detection At Its Finest

When you buy a house, you want to know as much about it as you can. As you settle in and become the homeowner, it’s your responsibility to maintain the house as best you can. The plumbing is an important feature in any home and it’s up to you to figure out when things are amiss. Water leak detection isn’t something everyone can do. While you can see some leaks, others are hidden. It’s important to know the basic components behind your plumbing when you need water leak detection.

Water Main Valve

Every home has a main shut off valve that controls the flow of water into the home. It is the first thing you will need to access if the leak you have is major and is causing damage to your home. In the event of an emergency, you really need to know where this valve is, so you can shut the water down while you call for a plumber to come help.

Cut Off Valves

Outside of the main valve, you also have valves that go to each major fixture inside the home. If you know what’s leaking, you can shut the water to that item alone off and still use the rest of the home. This is especially helpful if a toilet is overflowing and you want to stop the unsanitary water from filling the room.

Water Meters

The water meter gives you information on your water usage. While you know the water company looks at it monthly, you might want to keep an eye on it yourself. When you notice your water usage going up, even if you aren’t using any more water, you know you might need water leak detection help. You can’t always see the leaks so getting information from the meter can help you when they are subversive and out of sight.

Visual Detection

If you suspect you have a leak, the first thing you can do on your own, after you shut the water to the house down, is do a visual inspection of your pipes. If water has been leaking, you’ll likely see signs such as water on the pipes or on the floor beneath. There might be wet spots on the wall or ceiling in certain areas as well. If you can’t find anything, you will need a plumber do to an official water leak detection for you. Even if you see evidence, you may not be able to pinpoint where the leak began or what is causing it in the first place.

Address Your Home With Water Leak Detection

Once water leak detection is complete and the issue is fixed, you won’t have to pay as much for water you aren’t using. Your home will be safe and secure once again and you can rest easy knowing a plumbing emergency isn’t in your near future. If you see a leak, or just suspect a leak, contact Stephens Plumbing with your questions on water leak detection.