How to Spot a Leaking Underground Water Pipe
A lot of a home’s plumbing system is located underground beneath the home’s yard and foundation. The complicated network of pipes connects the home’s plumbing fixtures to the main water line and sewer line.
An underground leak in the water line can become a costly problem for homeowners because hidden leaks can go unnoticed for some time. By the time the homeowner does notice that they are dealing with a hidden plumbing leak, the property damage may already be extensive.
Underground water leaks can damage the home's foundation and compromise its structural integrity. Homeowners will wish they had known the signs of a hidden pipe leak sooner!
Know the Signs of a Hidden Pipe Leak
- Sound of water running when plumbing is off
- A sudden spike in water bills
- Increase in water usage for no obvious reason
- Decreased water pressure from faucets
- Puddles of water in the yard
- Tall patches of grass in the yard
When there is a problem with the main water line, it can manifest throughout the home’s plumbing system. There may be a decrease in water pressure from the shower or sink faucets. The water bill may also reflect higher water usage if the hidden leak wastes a large amount of water.
One of the most notorious signs of an underground water leak that homeowners should look for is wet patches on the lawn. Inexplicable puddles of water in the grass might be coming from a leak in the underground plumbing. The grass above the leak may also grow higher than the grass around it.
Check the Water Meter
Checking the water meter is an easy and fast way that homeowners can confirm a hidden water leak. The first step to checking the meter is to locate the home’s main water valve and shut it to the off position.
Once the water is completely shut off, the homeowner should watch the water meter carefully to see what it does. If the water meter shows that there is still water running through the pipes even when the water supply is shut off, this is a sign that there is a leak in a pipe somewhere.
Professional Tricks for Water Line Leak Detection
The first step to hidden leak repair is pinpointing where the leak is located. This can be difficult when the plumbing is located beneath the yard’s landscaping or under the home’s foundation. Professional plumbers have specialized tools that they can use to detect the location of hidden water leaks accurately without tearing up the yard.
Leak detectors work by listening for the sound of running water inside the pipes. Leak detection devices can pick up on even the slightest drop of water. This makes it easy for professional plumbers to find the leak quickly and get started with pipe repair.
An experienced plumber may be able to forego disruptive repairs to fix an underground pipe leak by repiping the plumbing.
About Lodder Brothers Limited
Lodder Brothers Limited has been the go-to plumbing company for homeowners in the Kitchener, ON area since 1975. They provide upfront pricing, 24-hour emergency service, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Give them a call today for plumbing services in Kitchener, ON.
