Leak Detection in Water Pipes

Water Leak Detection In Our Homes-A Guide
By John Morris

Rapid world population growth and lifestyle change contribute to the increased demand for>
water by mankind. Additionally, low level rainfall in some parts of the world, slowed the
replenishment of water supply.

Therefore, each one of us should make our best efforts in the conservation of one the most
precious commodity here on our planet, which is water. One such effort is to watch out for
water leaks in our homes, no matter how small those leaks might be.

Although some water leaks are so slow that they are not detectable, some known leaks are
being ignored by some homeowners. This is due to ignorance to the fact that small leaks that
keeps on leaking would sum up into thousands of gallons in a year. Imagine if all homeowners
had that same attitude?

Moreover, water leaks not only contribute to worldwide water shortage, but also cause damage
to some parts of the house's structure. Damages to the house structural elements could cause
the house to deteriorate faster, collapse, and injuries to its occupants.

Water leak detection can either be done by periodically checking the areas and components of
the house's plumbing system or by installing a commercially available water leak detection
device.

There are mainly two types of water leak detection system:

1. Passive Leak Detection Systems are usually stand-alone battery-operated devices that produce
alarm sound when its moisture sensor becomes wet, these alarms enable the homeowner to locate
exactly where the water leaks are and do the necessary repairs. Since these are battery-dependent
devices, its battery should be checked regularly.

2. Active Leak Detection Systems also sound an alarm when it detect water leaks, and will
automatically stop the water flow. It may use a moisture sensor or a flow sensor in monitoring
any water leaks. There are two types of active leak detection system:

a. Individual appliance systems monitor leaks from a single appliance and automatically shut
off water supply to such appliance should leaks be detected.

b. Whole house systems monitor leaks in the whole house and shut off the main water supply to
the house should leaks be detected. Whole house system is composed of several moisture sensors
which send signal to control valve via radio signal or by means of wiring connections.

Every house is unique and has a special situation to determine what type of water leak system is
applicable. Some simple systems may be installed by the homeowner, but complex systems should be
done by qualified plumber.

If you don't have water leak detection system device installed in your house, you can always check
your house periodically for any water leaks, unless of course if you already hear those water
dripping sound. Water leaks usually happen in areas where the water-consuming appliance and
plumbing fixtures are located. Among the most obvious areas to look for water leaks are:

1. Bathroom & toilet area (check for leaks on showerhead, faucet, and water heating system)

2. Kitchen (check for leaks on faucet, dishwasher, water heating system)

3. Laundry room (check for leaks on faucet, clothes washer)

4. Garage and basement area (check on evaporator cooler, hot water system)

5. Lawn (check on turf, low water use garden, irrigation system)

6. Pool and spa

7. Patio

8. Water meter

Detecting water leaks through the sight and sound may seem an easy task. This may be true in
fast and big leaks, but slow and small leaks, it could be impossible to detect without the aid
of a water leak detection device. Here are some tips in monitoring the house for possible water leaks.

1. Water is leaking in your toilet when water is moving from the tank to the bowl when nobody
is flushing it.

2. When your toilet is flushing itself when nobody is near the toilet.

3. Another method of detecting water leak in the toilet is to place food color in the tank, should
you see the color in the bowl after a few minutes then you can conclude that there is a leak.

4. Since most water pipes are embedded in the walls and floors, we can only know if there are leaks
when you see discoloration on wall, ceiling, and carpet.

5. Detecting water leaks in sprinkling system is the same with spotting leaks on concealed
piping systems.

6. One such practical way to know whether you have water leaks in your house is to monitor your
water bill. Should you have higher water bill with the same usual consumption, you could seek
a professional plumber or check it out with your local utility company.

Water leaks only worsen through time; it would be wise for you to deal with it as early as possible.
Early detection and repair shall save you money and prevent damage to your house. If you ignore it,
you are only postponing something you should do anyway.

For more great leak detection info and advice check out: leak-advisor.com

Article Source: EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Morris