One great advantage of plumbing systems is that they work covertly behind the scenes, providing us with water and removing waste whenever necessary. However, the stealth of these pipes and fixtures can also have its drawbacks. Sometimes, leaks can end up going undetected — causing significant damage to our homes along the way.
Do you suspect water is leaking somewhere inside your house — more specifically, behind a wall? It’s easy to panic, especially if you think the problem has been happening for some time. However, learning how to detect a water leak inside a wall can help you pinpoint its location and understand the extent of the problem.
Waiting to address the problem can have serious consequences for your home, especially when it comes to water damage. Without waiting another moment, let’s discuss how to find a water leak in your wall and what to do once you’ve confirmed it.
Signs of a Water Leak Behind a Wall
Although some water leaks can be difficult to spot, some signs make it easier to confirm your suspicions. You just need to know what to look out for. Before we dive into how to detect a water leak inside a wall, we’ll go over the three most common signs of leaks. They can vary in severity, so you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled.
Visible Water Spots
When there is a leak in the wall, water damage usually isn’t too far behind. This damage can appear in different forms, such as wet spots and discoloration. You will also want to be on the lookout for chipping paint or peeling wallpaper.
Strange, Musty Odors
If you’ve noticed a musty smell in your home, there’s a good chance that a leak is present. Leaking water can lead to mold and mildew growth. As you may know, these types of fungus enjoy popping up in damp, warm areas and on wood.
High Water Bills
Have your water bills skyrocketed? While leaky pipes can be a nuisance for your home, they can also cause trouble for your wallet. If the cost of your water bills doesn’t seem to match your water usage, it’s highly likely that you have a leak on your hands.
How to Identify Water Leaks
Although there are many signs of water leaks that you should keep an eye out for, sometimes they’re not so easy to spot. In fact, hidden water leaks are a common and highly concerning problem for homeowners.
If you suspect you have a leak but want to be completely certain, we have a few methods to try. Let’s discuss how to find a water leak in your wall so you can quickly address and fix the issue.
Check Your Water Meter
Whether you’ve stopped water spots on your walls or you’re worried a leak has gone undetected, it’s always a good idea to check the water meter. First, you’ll want to shut off the main water supply to the various faucets, fixtures, and appliances throughout your home. Once you’ve done this, write down the current reading on your water meter.
Now, you’ll need to wait about three hours before checking the meter reading once more. If the number has increased since last checking it, you’re dealing with a leak.
When learning how to detect a water leak inside a wall, it’s often easiest to start with simpler detection methods. Checking your water meter is a straightforward task and can tell you a great deal about your water usage and whether or not a leak is present.
Use Advanced Equipment
When you have a hidden leak, you might think you need to cut into your drywall to locate it. However, this isn’t the case. There are various plumbing leak detection methods available to homeowners, including state-of-the-art tools that you can find at a local hardware store.
Moisture meters are a tool that can be used to measure the amount of moisture in certain locations and materials. When you point the meter at your wall, it will tell you the specific location of the leak.
You might also want to consider using an infrared camera. This is another tool that will help you locate a leak — except this time, you’ll be working with temperature instead of moisture. When you point this camera at your wall, the leak’s location will light up as a bright blue or purple cold spot. When it comes to learning how to find a water leak in your wall, you might find that investing in high-tech tools can provide great assistance.
Contact a Professional
Leaking pipes are a big deal. If you’re unsure how long the problem has been going on or are concerned about the safety of your home, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional. Many Syracuse, NY, plumbers will tell you that the best way to address a plumbing problem is to contact an expert as soon as possible. This way, you can minimize the damage caused.
Knowing how to find a water leak in your wall is incredibly important — but you don’t always have to take the problem into your own hands. In the end, it can be beneficial to reach out to a professional plumber, especially if you don’t have any of the equipment listed above.
Found a Leak? Get in Touch With AP Plumbing
Now that we’ve discussed how to detect a water leak inside a wall, you can start using your new knowledge to identify and fix the problem in a quick and effective manner. Do you need the help of an emergency plumber in Rochester, NY? AP Plumbing is only a phone call away.
Whether corrosion or faulty plumbing is to blame, our plumbing experts know what to do when you have a water leak inside your home. Contact us today for more information about our services!
