Leak Detection 101

Household leaks can be costly and extremely wasteful. Here at 535 Plumbing we recommend inspecting your pipes for leaks one a month. Below are a few leak detection tips for that monthly inspection.

First things first — turn off all your household faucets, pipes and fixtures. You want to be sure that there is absolutely no water running. Next, locate your water meter. This is normally situated near the sidewalk in front of your home. If the dial continues to move you have a leak!

TOILET LEAK REPAIR

Pay extra attention to your toilet during leak inspection. An accurate assessment can be made with just a few drops of food coloring. Place the drops into the top tank when the toilet is filled and quiet. If any food coloring makes it into the toilet tank you have a leak! If no leak is detected the first time, repeat the test at a different time of the day. Toilet leaks are usually intermittent, making them the most difficult to detect.

PIPES LEAK REPAIR

It is important to check your exposed fixtures and pipes by sight and sound. Look for puddles and wall discoloration, and listen for dripping and hissing.

FAUCETS LEAKS

The most common cause of water waste is a leaky faucet. The deceptively small amount of water let out at a time often leaves this problem neglected. However a leaking faucet that lets out a water drop 1/32nd of an inch wastes approximately 25 gallons in a single day. When a faucet becomes leaky, no matter the size of the leak, it may be time for a new rubber washer — a problem that residents can alleviate themselves.

Leaks cannot fix themselves. Unfortunately, all leaks will continue to grow if proper repairs are not made. Don’t wait to call a trusted professional. A timely repair can save you money, time and a whole lotta stress. We go beyond the call here at 535 Plumbing. From water heater installation and repipe projects to clog removal, leak repair, construction and much more, our professionals are here to address your concerns as quickly and efficiently as possible.