How to find a water leak in a house?

After reading your water meter, do you notice excessive consumption that you cannot explain? If you look, you may find a water leak in your home. A leaky pipe can cost you dearly and cause significant moisture damage. Learn how to detect water leaks in a house!

Where to find a water leak in a house?

A leak in the pipes can be anywhere. It is not always easy to find a water leak in a house. However, there are places where leaks are particularly prone to forming.

Places to check to locate a water leak:

• The taps: one of the first things to do is of course to check all the taps. Leaks are usually located at end fittings and junctions.
• The toilet tank: Leaks are common in toilets. Open the tank and listen carefully, if you hear a hiss, there is a leak. You can detect a water leak by pouring a natural dye into the tank. If after a few minutes the bottom of the bowl becomes colored, the obturator is pierced.
• The water heater: the valve of the water heater is often connected to the rest of the pipes. Check that there is not a leak on the pipe or a hissing sound which could indicate a leak.
• The pipes between the meter and the house: to check if there is a leak outside, close the water inlet valve and observe your meter. If it won’t stop, there’s probably a leak in the pipes that connect your meter to the house.

If you know the layout of your home’s drains, check to see if there are signs of dampness on the walls that hide the drains. In general, it is at the level of the junctions that the leaks are located.

How to detect a water leak?

To detect a water leak, your first indication is your water bill. If at the time of the reading, your consumption is too high, immediately remember to check your pipes. Other clues can put you on the trail of a leak long before you pay the price. Leaks, even small ones, cause significant moisture damage:

1. If you observe a very localized damp spot in the middle of an interior wall, there may be a faulty pipe behind it.
2. A yellowish, green or brown wet spot with very strong outlines indicates that there has been a lot of water there. If you observe this kind of stain on a wall or ceiling, you are undoubtedly dealing with an accidental leak. A stain caused by ambient humidity develops more slowly and discreetly.
3. The material placed in front of a pipe deforms, warps, the paint crumbles,…
4. Water runs down your walls

As soon as you think you have a leak, act fast. Finding a water leak and repairing it quickly can help you avoid serious damage. Remember to contact your insurer, this type of damage is generally covered by insurance.