Leak Detection

What Causes a Leak?

Leaks can occur due to several factors: excessive pressure can overwhelm their capacity, causing leaks; cracks, though less common with modern plumbing, can still occur and lead to water seepage; and corrosion, often caused by factors like water chemistry, temperature and pressure, can deteriorate pipes and result in leaks. To prevent corrosion-related leaks, treating your water can be highly effective.

What are the most common types of leaks?

Common types of leaks include dripping taps, ceiling leaks, under-sink leaks, underground pipe leaks, and wall leaks. Each can cause significant issues, so timely repair is essential to prevent further damage. These leaks most frequently occur in areas such as the kitchen, bathroom and in the walls, where plumbing and water usage are concentrated.

How to know if you have a leak in your home?

Detecting leaks can be challenging, but recognising the following warning signs can help you address them before they escalate. Watch for a decrease in water pressure, stains on ceilings, floors, or walls, an unexpectedly high water bill, increased humidity in your home, or mould growth. 

Also, listen for unusual plumbing noises like dripping or hissing and inspect for rusty or corroded pipes. If you notice any of these warning signs, please contact our expert on 02 8859 0801 immediately.

What are the consequences of not fixing a leak?

Addressing leaks is crucial as ignoring them can have several consequences. Your water bills may rise due to increased consumption, and severe leaks could result in flooding in your home. Leaking toilets can cause significant issues and waste a lot of water, while overall water leaks are not environmentally friendly.

Can I detect leaks on my own, or should I hire a professional?

While you can perform basic checks for leaks, such as inspecting for ceiling leaks or water leaking from the ceiling, hiring a professional is advisable for accurate leak detection and thorough assessment.

What should I do if a leak is found?

If a leak is found, turn off the water supply and contact a professional plumber for repairs to prevent further damage.

How can I prevent leaks in my home?

To prevent leaks in your home, regularly check plumbing fixtures for wear and maintain appliances like washing machines and dishwashers by inspecting hoses. Addressing minor issues promptly can help catch potential problems before they escalate.

How often should I have my home inspected for leaks?

It’s recommended to have your home inspected for leaks at least once a year or more frequently if you notice signs of leaks, such as roof leaks in heavy rain. Regular inspections can help catch potential issues before they become serious. For more advice on preventing leaks, visit our blog.

What are the best methods for detecting leaks?

Regularly check taps and toilets for leaks. To test for toilet leaks, add a few drops of food colouring to the cistern and see if the colour appears in the bowl. Disconnect hoses from garden taps to ensure they aren’t leaking, and look for irregular patches of green grass, which may indicate an underground leak.

Is the leak detection process invasive and disruptive?

No, modern leak detection methods are non-invasive, meaning they don’t require drilling or breaking through walls unless absolutely necessary. This ensures minimal disruption to your property while still effectively identifying leaks.