It’s no secret that water damage can be one of the most expensive issues an Australian homeowner has to deal with during a plumbing emergency. Especially if it’s due to a leak that may have gone undetected for some time.
A sudden, unexplained increase in your water bill may be a clear indication that you have a hidden water leak somewhere on your property. Finding it means you may need to opt for the water leak detection Sydney plumbers rely on to minimise the effects of water damage.
Understanding Water Leak Detection in Australia
As the term implies, water leak detection is the process that your plumber uses to find potential leaks in your plumbing infrastructure. Since not all leaks happen in the open where you can see them, it becomes necessary to check underground or in-wall pipes.
This process is done using advanced technology. Some of the more common detection methods your local Sydney plumbers may opt to use:
- CCTV pipe cameras
- Thermal imaging cameras
- Tracer gas
- Acoustic listening using sensors
- Pressure testing
- Moisture meters
- Water meter check
A huge benefit of these processes is that they are non-invasive, which goes a long way toward avoiding unnecessary digging. These specialised methods also help plumbers to locate and repair leaks before extensive water damage is caused.
Saves Time and Money
Wouldn’t it be convenient if all water leaks happened neatly in the corner, out of harm’s way? Unfortunately, you may already have learnt the hard way that plumbing issues don’t work like that. Some of the telltale signs that you may be dealing with a hidden water leak include the following:
Higher water bills despite no change in usage patterns
- Damp patches on walls or floors
- Peeling or bubbling paint or wallpaper
- Sudden cracks in the foundation or walls
- Mildew or mould growth on walls, floors, or ceilings
- Gurgling noises coming from the pipes
- Sudden appearance of very green patches in your yard
If you’re noticing any of these issues, it’s a good idea to call your plumber to schedule an inspection of your plumbing infrastructure. We’ve compiled a list of the top ways of doing this that will benefit you.
1. Saves Money on Your Water Bill
Here’s a plumbing reality you need to know. Small leaks will eventually get bigger and end up causing more damage and costing more to repair. As the hole or crack in the damaged pipe grows, more water seeps out. This means that you’re not only going to pay more for a repair, but your water bill will also be higher. Repairing small leaks early will therefore save you money in he long-run.
2. Reduces Water Damage
Whether you have an indoor or outdoor leak, considerable water pooling can cause significant damage. For instance, water pooling near your home’s foundation can contribute to structural damage, whereas water inside can warp floors, cause paint to peel, and even damage furnishings in the area. Early leak detection can minimise the harmful effects of water damage, no matter where it is.
3. Minimises the Risk of Mould Formation
Another harmful effect caused by even the smallest water leak is the formation of mould and bacteria. In many instances, by the time you notice the water leak, mould spores have already started growing.
Having mould in your home can be harmful to your health as the spores cause and aggravate respiratory issues such as asthma. In addition to this, mould spores can also damage your walls and ceilings, as well as be difficult to get rid of. Early water leak detection can minimise the amount of mould you have to clear out.
4. Can Keep Your Insurance Premiums Stable
Another top reason to call your plumber for any potential leaks is that it can minimise the need for any water damage claims. Since water damage claims are quite common in Australia, it’s not uncommon for premiums to increase after a major claim. You can avoid this by dealing with small leaks quickly.
5. Minimises Water Damage
Leaking pipes or fixtures can create an enormous amount of water wastage every year. This is especially concerning in a water-scarce country like Australia, where many areas are drought-prone. Excessive water wastage also adds to the pressure on water mains.
Conserve water by ensuring that you check your water bill for early signs of water leaks. It’s also a good idea to check your property for other signs of damp, pooling water, or mould growth in unusual places.
Final Thoughts
An increase in your water bill may be a clear indication that you’re dealing with a hidden water leak. Fortunately, local Sydney plumbers will use a range of leak detection methods to locate and repair the issue.
This not only ensures that there’s no unnecessary digging but can also save you money on unnecessary labour. It’s the quickest way to find a water leak and deal with it before it results in severe water damage. If you suspect you have a hidden water leak, speak to your Sydney plumber ASAP!
