Water leaks underground can cause extensive damage to your property and lead to costly repairs if left untreated. It’s important to be aware of the signs of an underground water leak so that you can take action as soon as possible. In this article, we will discuss how to tell if you have a water leak underground and what you can do to fix it.
Check Your Water Bill
One of the first signs that you may have an underground water leak is a sudden increase in your water bill. If you notice a significant increase in your water usage, but you haven’t changed your water usage habits, it’s possible that you have a water leak. Check your water meter to see if it’s still running even when all of your water fixtures are turned off. If it is, you probably have a leak.
Look for Signs of Water Damage
Another sign of an underground water leak is water damage. If you notice damp spots or puddles in your yard or driveway, it could be a sign that water is leaking underground. You may also notice a sudden increase in the humidity in your home or the smell of mildew, which could indicate water damage.
Listen for Running Water
If you suspect that you have an underground water leak, listen for the sound of running water. You may be able to hear the sound of water running even when all of your fixtures are turned off. This could indicate that water is leaking underground.
Conduct a Visual Inspection
You can also conduct a visual inspection of your property to look for signs of a water leak. Check your water fixtures, such as faucets and toilets, for leaks. Look for cracks or gaps in your pipes or water fixtures that could be allowing water to escape.
Hire a Professional
If you’re not sure whether you have a water leak underground, or if you’ve identified a leak but don’t know how to fix it, it’s best to hire a professional. A plumber or leak detection specialist can use specialized equipment to locate the leak and provide you with an estimate for repairs.
Fixing an Underground Water Leak
If you have identified an underground water leak, it’s important to fix it as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your property. The first step is to turn off the water supply to your property to prevent the leak from causing any more damage. Next, you’ll need to excavate the area around the leak to expose the damaged pipe. Depending on the severity of the damage, you may be able to repair the pipe or you may need to replace it entirely.
Preventing Underground Water Leaks
Preventing underground water leaks is the best way to avoid the hassle and expense of repairing them. Here are some tips for preventing water leaks:
- Regularly inspect your water fixtures for leaks and repair them as soon as possible.
- Monitor your water bill and look for any sudden increases in usage.
- Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper down your toilets.
- Be careful when digging or landscaping to avoid damaging your pipes.
- Hire a professional to inspect your plumbing system regularly.
In conclusion, if you suspect that you have a water leak underground, it’s important to take action as soon as possible. By checking your water bill, looking for signs of water damage, listening for running water, conducting a visual inspection, and hiring a professional, you can identify and fix water leaks before they cause extensive damage to your property. Remember to take preventative measures to avoid water leaks in the future.
