According to studies, leaks waste between 2,000 and 20,000 gallons of water per year in the average household. Many leaks go undetected for years if the cause of the leak isn’t clear, such as faucets or water heaters. Furthermore, the precise location of a leak isn’t always obvious, as some leaks may begin in one location but flow along a channel before being discovered.

Purchasing a new home is a significant financial commitment. In reality, studies show that it is the most significant decision most ordinary families make in their lives. So, particularly in these days of lower house prices and sometimes quick sales, it makes sense to make sure you aren’t being sold a doozy. Although your home inspection is an important part of the process, there’s no guarantee that you’ll catch anything. Leak detection is one place where you should concentrate your efforts because anything you overlook could cost you a lot of money in the long run. With the average cost of home water damage insurance claims being nearly $7,000, water leak testing and keeping your home dry should be a top priority for homeowners.
 

7 Reasons Water Leak Detection is Important:
 

• Cost of Water Bills
   
• Water Safety
   
• Environment
   
• The Cost of Delay
   
• Damage to Other Property
   
• Maximizing Usage
   
• Reliable Water Supply

 

Below are some methods for detecting leaks.

Mold and Mildew

These are the most common suspects in a home with water leaks, and it isn’t the responsibility of the home inspector to find them. Most inspectors can point out mold if they see it, and others will mention it in their report to escape responsibility for mold-related issues, so you should inquire if the inspector saw any signs of it. Your best bet is to conduct your own investigation and, if you find any signs of mold or mildew, contact Leak Science and have a leak detection specialist confirm it for you. Even in hot, dry weather, you should be able to detect signs of mold and mildew, particularly if they are caused by leaking water pipes or drains.

Look for mold and mildew by:
 

• Smell – these problems are caused by the growth of fungus that feeds off moisture, and the fungus has a musty, fairly distinctive odor. So take a “sniffing expedition” through the house and see if you smell anything that gives you food for thought.
   
• Look – although mold and mildew are only readily visible when they reach an advanced stage, you can usually find them if you look carefully in the corners of rooms, both at floor and ceiling level, under stairs, and inside bathroom closets.

 

Investigate the Basement and Crawl Space

Water leaks are notoriously hidden in basements and crawl spaces. Take a careful look at the basement’s walls and floor for any signs of dampness. If you don’t feel confident to do it yourself, you can always call experts from Leak Science if you notice anything unusual. At Leak Science, we combine and apply two elements that makeup leak detection in general: technology and science. They will detect the leaks that continue to cost you money every day before they are found and fixed using highly sensitive equipment. They will investigate your home using infrared imaging equipment to check the foundations or a camera inspection inside your drains.

While any water leak in your home can be identified with the help of your water meter, underground leaks are often detected visually. Make a note of those places that seem or feel damp all of the time. Keeping an eye out for puddles or dark spots on your driveway and curb will also aid in the detection of underground leaks.
 

The Leak Science Process for Leak Detection

Leak Science’s procedure is much easier than it seems. To assess the symptoms, they first talk with the homeowner or trade specialist in-depth. Following that, they inspect the pool and dye test any opening and crack that may be a leak source. Then they pressurize each underground pipe to see if there is any pressure loss. Then using highly sensitive acoustics to locate the leak, followed by our leak verification process. Finally, an “X” marks the location in a 22-foot area.
 

Check the Water Meter

Checking the water meter is a popular method of leak detection. It’s simple if the house is empty, but even if it isn’t, you can get started by telling anyone to refrain from turning on faucets or flushing toilets for a while. Switch off all water outlets and wait 15 minutes before checking to see if the meter is working. If that’s the case, it’s normally a sign that there’s a leak somewhere. Examine all of the toilets in the house to see if any are leaking tanks, and check the water pressure in the faucets to ensure nothing is draining away within the walls.

Monitoring your water meter is the easiest way to see if you have a leak in your house. Check and write down your meter reading, and check it again an hour or two later after making sure no water is running inside or outside the building. You have a leak if the reading has shifted. Your water bill increase can come from a simple faucet leak to a major pool leak. Whatever the case, veteran-owned and operated Leak Science home leak detection services can diagnose, locate, and solve your leak problem.
 

Detect Faucet and Toilet Leaks

Leaky faucets are usually caused by a worn rubber washer, and toilet leaks are typically caused by the flapper, all of which are easily replaceable. It’s crucial to listen carefully, and if you hear any hissing sounds, try to figure out where they’re coming from because this might indicate a leak.
 

Examine the Exterior and Yard

It’s not uncommon for issues to occur outside rather than inside. Look for signs of water pooling throughout the building, as well as discoloration against the lower walls, which may suggest dampness. Examine the gutters and downspouts to see if they are in good shape and won’t need to be repaired if you buy the home.
 

Review the Roof, Gutters, and Downspouts

A crucial part of leak detection is inspecting the roof’s condition. Since home inspectors rarely climb up onto roofs, you will need to devise a strategy to do so. If you can’t get up on the roof yourself, hire a professional to check that all of the shingles are in good shape. Make sure the gutters and downspouts are capable of carrying water away from the roof.
 

Assess the Plumbing

A detailed examination of the home’s water pipes is part of comprehensive leak detection. Even if your water meter check does not reveal a leak, you can inspect all accessible pipes to see if moisture is present around ties, joints, and valves. Wipe each seal with a fresh paper towel to see if there are any signs of water that might indicate the start of a new leak.

Don’t be misled into bidding on a house without first inspecting it thoroughly. Leak detection is less expensive than major repairs, particularly if you miss anything potentially costly.

Leak Science delivers a high-quality, thorough inspection report and is here whenever you have a question, even after the inspection. Leak Science is committed to providing the best possible home leak detection service and customer service, not leaving until you are satisfied because your complete satisfaction is their number one goal!

If you detect a water leak in your home, contact Leak Science in the Greater Phoenix area today to learn more about water leaks.