How Do You Detect a Water Leak Underground?
Water leakage can occur on any water system in your home at any time. Most water leakages are easily identifiable because they happen on piping systems that are easy to see.
However, water leakages also occur in water systems that are installed underground. They can be difficult to spot, but with the right skills and help from a professional with an underground water leak detector, the process is easy.
Signs of Underground Water Leaks
The most common sign of underground water leaks a puddle of water on the ground that never dries up or a stream of water that flows steadily.
If the pipes are underneath your house, you may notice wet patches and dampness on the floor. Unexplained lush spots in your yard can also be a sign of a water leak underneath.
What’s Causing the Leak
Underground water leaks may be caused by:
- Old and worn water system components such as pipe joints and valves
- Too much pressure being exerted above ground leading to pipe destruction
- The ground freezing and thawing
- Shifting soil
- Bad installation
Ways to Detect Leaks
Before making any next steps, you want to be sure it is a leak you’re experiencing. There are a few ways to take out the guesswork, and move forward correctly.
Do a Meter Test
A meter test is the easiest way to tell whether you have a water leak or not. First, ensure that all your faucets and water consuming gadgets such as dishwasher and laundry machine are shut off.
Go to your meter and read its current reading then wait for an hour or overnight to recheck it. If the meter dial has moved and the new meter reading is higher, then it’s likely that you have a water leak somewhere.
Consult a Professional for a Definitive Answer
If you believe that you have an underground leak but can’t pinpoint its exact location, then consider consulting a professional as soon as possible. An expert will use an underground water leak detector to perform a test and determine the approximate location of the leak.
Professionals use specialty tools such as sounding devices, to identify the leak.
Detecting an underground leak can be a daunting task without specialty tools. It is advisable to consult a professional for a fast process so that repairs can be carried out on a timely basis. This will save you from incurring higher water bills and prevent further damage to your property.