It's one thing to suspect you have a water leak, but it's another to actually prove it. This is the kind of nagging concern that can stress you out until you know for sure as a homeowner. When you're aware of how to know if you have a leak, you can determine the matter for sure and then address it appropriately.
Inspect Your Pipes Visually
Look at any pipes exposed enough to check them yourself for leaks. Also, look for moisture accumulation, puddles, or water stains that might indicate leaks even if you don't see them with your own eyes. Unfortunately, many water pipes are hidden or even underground, so you won't be able to check everything this way.
Look Over Your Utility Bills
One thing you can do is go back over your last year's worth of water utility bills. Your water usage isn't likely to be identical every month, but unless you changed the fixtures or the number of people in your home changed, it should be pretty consistent. A change in the usage rates won't determine a leak specifically, but they can indicate the possibility.
Get a Meter Reading
Find the water meter for your home. Write down the reading of where it is at that specific time. You'll need to record this number for contrast later on in the day.
Shut Everything Off
Turn everything you can off. Make sure all faucets are off. Even turn off your toilets and hot water heater so they don't cycle any water automatically in standby mode, as such fixtures are known to do. If you're not sure how to do this, consult Gene Johnson Plumbing or the appropriate professionals in your area. Get everyone out of your home for a few hours or longer.
Check the Meter Reading Again
When you get back home after several hours or your day out, check the meter reading once more. If it's different than when you left, something is drawing water, and it's probably a leak.
Your home's water bill might not be your biggest utility. In fact, you might not even pay for it depending on your lease or municipality. However, wasting water is no good for the environment, whether it costs you money or not. It's also moisture that your home shouldn't have loose, so be sure you have no leaks. Get them treated if you do find one.
