How to Identify a Plumbing Leak

Plumbing leaks in Florida homes often go undetected for months, quietly causing water damage, mold growth, and elevated water bills. Here's how to find them.

Check Your Water Meter

Turn off all water in your home and note your water meter reading. Wait one hour without using any water, then check again. If the meter has moved, you likely have a leak somewhere in the system.

Inspect Under Sinks and Around Toilets

Open cabinet doors under all sinks and check for moisture, discoloration, or visible drips on pipes and supply lines. Check the floor around toilets for soft spots or staining that might indicate a slow leak at the base.

Check Your Water Heater

Look for corrosion, moisture, or rust around the water heater connections, pressure relief valve, and base. A small drip from the pressure relief valve that runs continuously indicates it needs replacement.

Monitor Your Water Bill

An unexplained increase in your water bill is often the first sign of a hidden leak. A toilet that runs continuously can waste more than 1,000 gallons per day.

Check Exterior Hose Bibs

Outdoor faucets that weren't winterized or were impacted by landscaping damage can develop slow leaks that go unnoticed for long periods.

Air & Energy's licensed plumbers find and fix leaks throughout Manatee County (License #CFC1429106). Call (941) 778-0773 or schedule service online.