It’s not always easy to detect the source of a plumbing leak in your home. You might hear water flowing somewhere or discover an unsightly stain on the wall or ceiling, but those are only symptoms of the problem. To resolve it, you’ll need to find the precise location of the damage. Here’s what you can do to find the source.

How to Detect a Plumbing Leak

1. Inspect Fixtures

Make a habit of checking the areas where leaks are likely to occur, especially if you live in an older home. Inspect sink cabinets regularly for signs of moisture on the pipes. Check the wood inside for common signs of water damage, like dark stains, peeling, or mold. You should also examine the area around your water heater tank for puddles.

2. Inspect the Flooring

Flooring often bears the brunt of the damage when a leak goes undetected for a while. With enough moisture, it may eventually start to sag or develop cracks. Carpets might feel matted and soggy or suffer discoloration. If there’s a wall adjacent to the affected floor, the paint or wallpaper might start to peel away or form bubbles.

3. Check the Toilet

A leaky toilet may continue to run after you flush it or emit an odor reminiscent of sewage. Test it by applying a couple of drops of food coloring to the toilet tank, then wait for approximately 10 minutes. If the color starts to shade the water inside the bowl, it’s a clear sign that there’s a leak present. Since toilets account for almost 30% of residential water usage, resolve this plumbing issue quickly to avoid a spike in your energy bills.

Are you concerned about a plumbing leak in your home? Have the professionals at Bernie Buchner, Inc. assess it for you. Based in La Crosse, WI, and proudly serving the Tri-State area, they handle everything from plumbing repairs to water heater and softener installation. To find out more, visit them online, or call (608) 784-9000 to schedule an appointment with a plumber. Text JOIN to (608) 480-8709 to receive text message updates.