If the numbers are the same this time around, the leak is in the house. First, they’ll need to shut off the home’s main water valve (usually in the garage or basement), then go down to the meter and repeat the process described above. Homeowners whose meters are located by the street can perform an additional step to get a general idea of where the leak is located. If the numbers are different, there’s almost certainly a leak. After the hour is up, they can compare the number they wrote down with the one on the meter. Homeowners need to write down the numbers they see, then wait one hour, making sure not to use any water in the meantime. The next step is to find the home’s water meter, typically located either down by the street or on the side of the house itself.Ī series of numbers will be displayed on the meter face, either on a digital screen or mechanical counter. The Water Meter Testįor a more definitive sign of a leak somewhere in the home’s water supply system, homeowners can perform the time-honored “ water meter test.” The first step is to ensure no faucets or water fixtures are in use anywhere in the home (including outdoor hose bibs and irrigation systems). If homeowners notice a sound like running water (typically a muffled hissing) when no one (or no appliance) is using water, the likely culprit is a water line leak. Low water pressure could also be the result of a hidden pipe leak. Unusually high water bills may indicate a leaky water pipe, as even a tiny leak can dramatically increase the home’s monthly water consumption. With an underground water leak, visible signs include soggy spots or puddles in the yard and patches of grass that grow thicker or faster than the rest of the lawn. Hidden leaks inside the home will often be accompanied by visual evidence such as peeling paint, bubbling wallpaper, warping, or discolored spots. When it comes to spotting leaks, it’s best to start with the easiest method, keeping an eye (and an ear) out.
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