An underground water leak or a slab leak is a homeowner’s worst nightmare. While water pipes are designed to last for decades, they can still suffer damage or break due to age, shifting soil, vibration from nearby construction, and tree root intrusion. It’s important to recognize the signs that you have an underground water leak at the earliest stages to avoid excessive damage.
Detecting and resolving an underground water leak can be a messy and costly task. However, by enlisting the services of an experienced plumber specializing in leak detection, you can alleviate a lot of the stress and uncertainty that often come with water leaks.
The following are signs to watch out for that may indicate you have an underground water leak:
- Unexplained increase in water usage and higher utility charges without any changes in your water use habits.
- Soggy spots on the lawn or damp patches in your basement that weren’t previously present.
- Water bubbling up through the ground or pooling around the foundation of your home.
- Cracked pavement, bulges on walkways or driveways.
- Faint hissing or bubbling sounds in the walls.
- A sudden decrease in water pressure during showers and other activities.
- The sound of running water when no faucets are turned on.
- A thick grass or vegetation growth in one spot of the lawn.
- Musty odors coming from drains or vents.
- Discolored water (brown, yellow, or rust-colored) coming from faucets.
- Mold or mildew spots on the walls, floors, or ceilings.
- Depressions in the yard that don’t fill with water.
- Foundation damage or settling of structures near the leak location.
The list above is by no means exhaustive. If you notice any of the above signs that you have an underground water leak or have other reasons to suspect that you may have an underground water leak, reach out to Danika Plumbing. We provide professional underground water leak detection services to help you identify and repair the sources of water leaks.
Read our DIY leak detection methods if you’re confident you can handle the problem. It’s nothing like detecting a toilet leak!
How To Determine If You Have an Underground Water Leak
a) Test for a main water line leak
You may want to verify that you have an underground water leak before calling a plumber, and there are a few ways to do this. The most reliable method is to cut off all water fixtures in the house, including the water heater and irrigation systems.
Then check the meter readout outside the residence to see if the water is still flowing. If the meter shows that water is being used, you most likely have a leak somewhere in your system. When your system leaks slowly, you may need to wait a few hours or overnight to see if the readout changes.
Another method to detect an underground water leak is to perform a pressure test. This involves using special equipment to measure the water pressure in your system and compare it against the expected pressure. Take note of any inconsistencies or drops in pressure as they could indicate a leak.
b) Listen for noises that indicate water flow
Pressurized underground water pipes can produce sounds when there is a leak. Specifically, the sound of water escaping from a small crack in the pipe can range from a hiss to a whoosh, depending on the size and location of the leak.
Professional plumbers use specialized listening devices, such as a stethoscope-like tool called an acoustic leak detector. This device amplifies the sound of escaping water, allowing the technician to pinpoint its exact location.
c) Examine exposed areas of your plumbing system
If there are any exposed areas along the water line on your property, such as a lawn sprinkler system or exposed piping near your home’s foundation, you may be able to spot the leak by a visual inspection. Look for wet patches or standing water on your lawn, as well as cracks in any concrete surfaces that could allow water to escape.
d) Check for abnormal water bills
If you have a leak in your underground plumbing, it will result in increased water usage and an abnormally high water bill. Monitor your monthly bill to ensure that changes are consistent with normal usage patterns. If there is a sudden jump in the amount you’re paying each month, then it could be a sign that you have a hidden water leak.
How to Prevent Underground Water Leaks
Taking preventive measures to protect your property or structure from underground leaks is a crucial step to stop the leak and save money on costly repairs in the meantime. Some measures you can take to mitigate the damage are:
- Shut off the water supply to the area at the main valve and inspect it regularly.
- Use a sump pump if there is a chance of flooding.
- Install backflow prevention to reduce the risk of contaminated water entering your system.
- Install a clamp or patch to seal a leak.
- Use waterproofing membranes during construction to protect the structure from water damage.
- Ensure your hose connections are tight and free of leaks.
- Maintain your pipes and plumbing system with regular inspections.
- Repair any cracks in foundations or walls immediately.
By taking the right preventative measures, you can avoid costly repairs and protect your property from the effects of an underground water leak. Danika Plumbing is here to help you keep your plumbing system in good condition and ensure your underground water lines remain leak-free.
Trust Danika Plumbing for Expert Underground Leak Detection
Danika Plumbing provides professional underground water leak detection services that are designed to help quickly and accurately locate the source of the leak. Our technicians use a combination of methods to detect and resolve the issue, including pressure testing, acoustic leak detection, video pipe inspection, and infrared camera technology.
If you think you may have an underground water leak, don’t hesitate to contact us today. We are available 24/7 for emergency services and provide same-day appointments for non-emergency issues. Let us help you identify and repair the source of your water leak quickly, safely, and affordably.