One of the most frustrating (and costly) plumbing issues that homeowners face is a hidden water leak. You can’t see it, and it might not make a loud noise — but over time, it can cause serious damage, spike your water bill, and lead to some expensive repairs.
If you suspect there might be a leak lurking somewhere in your home, it’s important to act fast. So, what should you look out for? And how can you track it down?
6 Signs You Might Have a Hidden Water Leak
First, let’s talk about the signs that might indicate a hidden leak. You might not see water flooding your floor, but these subtle clues could mean something’s up:
Your water bill keeps rising without explanation
If your bill jumps up for no apparent reason, it’s one of the first signs that something’s not right. A hidden leak is often the culprit.There’s water damage or dampness on walls or ceilings
If you notice water stains or peeling paint, there’s a good chance water is getting somewhere it shouldn’t.Mould or mildew
That musty smell? It’s often a tell-tale sign of hidden moisture — which can lead to mould, especially in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.A drop in water pressure
Notice a decrease in your water pressure, especially in one part of the house? It could be that water is leaking somewhere in the system.Sound of running water when no taps are on
If you hear water running or dripping but everything’s turned off, it’s worth investigating. A slow leak can create that sound — and the longer you leave it, the worse it can get.Creaky or warped flooring
Leaks under your floors can cause the wood to warp or squeak. Over time, this can damage the flooring — and lead to bigger issues down the line.
How to Check for a Leak (Without Getting a Sledgehammer)
If you’re handy and want to have a go at finding the leak before calling in the professionals, here’s what you can do:
Check the water meter: Turn off all the taps in your home and then check the meter. If it’s still ticking, you likely have a leak somewhere.
Food coloring trick for toilets: Put a few drops of food coloring in your toilet tank and wait 30 minutes. If the color shows up in the bowl without flushing, you’ve got a slow leak in the tank.
Check under sinks and appliances: Look around for wet spots, dampness, or drips. Sometimes, the problem’s right in front of you.
Why You Should Call a Professional Plumber
While DIY checks can be helpful, sometimes you need a qualified plumber or leak detection expert to find the issue. Leaks often hide behind walls, under floors, or inside pipes where you can’t reach, and finding them requires specialized tools.
At EPM, we’ve got the right equipment — like thermal imaging and acoustic detection tools — to find and fix hidden leaks quickly, without the hassle.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Leak
Even a small, slow leak can cause big damage if you leave it too long. Here’s what can happen:
Mould growth: This can be dangerous to your health and costly to fix.
Water damage: It can rot wooden beams and weaken the structure of your home.
Higher water bills: You could end up paying more for water you’re not even using.
Final Thoughts
If you think you’ve got a hidden water leak, don’t wait. The sooner you catch it, the less damage it can do — and the cheaper the fix will be.
Need help finding a leak or just want someone to double-check your plumbing? Give us a call, and one of our professional plumbers in Exeter will come out, take a look, and get to the bottom of it.
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