Water leaks your home’s interior and belongings and cause mold or mildew. Hidden or slow leaks can also add up on your utility bills. If you suspect you have a water leak, it’s important to act fast to avoid additional damage. This article will provide a few tips to help you find and fix the problem before it gets out of control.

Drip by Drip: Understanding and Addressing Common Water Leaks in Your Home

First, try to identify the source of your leak. This is best done with the help of professional leak detection services, but there are a few clues that can give you a general idea where the water is coming from. Unexplained wet spots on the floor or wall, a sudden increase in your water bill without an obvious explanation, and unusually high water pressure are all warning signs of a potential leak.

If you notice any of these warning signs, turn off the water to the affected area and try to document the damage as best as possible. You can then call your local plumber for repairs. Before calling, it’s a good idea to check your water meter and make sure that no one has been using any water in the house. The meter should have a leak indicator, either a triangular shaped dial or a small silver wheel that moves when water is flowing through the meter. If the meter is moving, you have a water leak somewhere in your house. This is a good time to shut off all faucets and showers, and wait 1 or 2 hours before taking another meter reading.