How to Trace a Leaking Pipe

Leaks can cause significant damage to your home over time, and they can also waste a lot of water, and thus waste a lot of money. In fact, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) a single drippy faucet can waste gallons of water just over the course of one month. If you are unsure if you actually have a leak, the best thing to do is contact a professional plumber to conduct water leak detection services. However, while you wait for your appointment we do have some pointers on how to trace a leaking pipe, which we’ve shared below.

Kitchen or Bathroom Leaks

To check for the source of a leak in a kitchen or a bathroom, open your cabinet doors and inspect the inside. Check for moisture at the joints and at the bottom of the p-trap. Another factor that could signal a leak is visible corrosion on the supply line fittings and valves.

Remove everything from the cabinet and inspect the bottom. Do you see water stains, or feel dampness? Check for mold and mildew as well, in addition to buckled or peeling material. These are all strong indicators that a leak is present. Sometimes, this may be fixed by simply tightening fittings. However, it’s best to have a professional check it out, just in case.

Floors, Walls, and Ceilings

Check the flooring around fixtures and appliances throughout your home. This can include toilets, bathtubs, your dishwasher, and your refrigerator. If you observe warped or cracking flooring, there is likely moisture caused by a leak. Check also for water stains on ceilings that rest beneath your bathtubs and toilets. Stains, or bubbling and peeling of paint, can be indicative of a leak.

Basements and Crawlspaces

Typically, pipes in these areas are exposed. However, since they aren’t areas you likely frequent, it can be hard to spot a leak. Go ahead and examine these pipes to see if you notice any corrosion or moisture. Check also for mold, mildew, or rotted wood around the pipes since this could certainly be a sign of a longstanding leak. Remember that water travels downward, so any water stains you observe may not be at the exact location of a leak.

For professional water leak detection services in West Palm Beach, FL, contact Kwik Plumbers today!