Major water leaks will likely need to be handled by a water leak detection and repair company - such as a local, 24-hour plumber. All homeowers, property managers, and renters should know where the water shut-off valve is on their property in order to mitigate water damage.
Not all contractors offer both water leak detection and water leak repair. If you've got a small water leak, or only suspect a water leak - such as from an increased water bill - you may want to hire a company that only offers water leak detection. The primary reason for hiring a contractor just to find your leak, is they can often get out to your property quicker because it's the only service they offer.
However, you'll then need to shop around for water leak repair contractor. That being said, if you've got a trusted plumber or other local company that offers water leak detection and water leak repair, always go with the contractor you know.
Water Leak Symptoms
How do you know if you have a water leak? There are a few possible indicators that you have a water leak. The most common is probably your water bill. Does your water bill show that you used more water this month than last month.
Not just a change in price, but a change in use (gallons per month) that does not seem right. A major increase in water usage (likely due to a broken water line) should result in a phone call from your water company well before the bill arrives.
The other indications that you have a water leak are sight and smell. If you're on well-water you may smell sulfur - rotten eggs - even when water is not running (showers, washing machines, dishwashers, etc.). You also may notice unexplained water puddles or mold. Mold and mildew growing on drywall would be a good indicator you've got a water leak nearby.
Types of Water Leaks
Water leaks, for the most part, come in two varieties: fixture leaks and pipe leaks. Both can be costly - especially on your water bill.
A toilet leak can waste anywhere from 200 to 50,000 gallons per month - a shower or faucet leak can waste 500 to 10,000 gallons per month! And water line leaks can cause major water damage - from loss of property to mold infestation.
- Toilet leaks
- Shower leaks
- Faucet leaks
- Water line leaks
- Underground leaks
- Slab leaks
- Leaks behind walls
When it comes to fixing and finding plumbing fixture leaks, you likely won't need any specialized water leak detection equipment, but an experienced plumber is best to fix them correctly.
If you suspect a water line leak you should always hire a licensed, insured professional. Whether you hire a licensed plumber or a water leak detection company, you want knowledge, experience, and the right equipment on the job.
Water leak detection specialists can employ sewer camera equipment to find pipe problems with pinpoint accuracy.
Professional water leak detection companies, in addition to sewer cameras or instead of, may also employ infrared, sonar, and smoke to detect leaks.
