Types of Water Leaks You Need To Know (Before It’s Too Late!)

Discover how to identify and address water leaks effectively, because understanding the different types, causes, and solutions can save you from costly damage and unnecessary stress. Leaks can appear suddenly or develop gradually, hiding within walls, under floors, or in hard-to-reach areas. This guide equips you with the knowledge to become a leak detective, uncovering the source of the problem and taking the right steps towards a solution.

Leaks can spring from various sources and locations within your home, varying in severity and potential for damage. Understanding the common types, their tell-tale signs, potential causes, and level of urgency is crucial for effective response and resolution.

Pipes, the arteries of your plumbing system, can leak due to corrosion, temperature fluctuations, or excessive water pressure. Depending on the location and extent of the leak, the severity can range from minor to severe.

• Under sinks (Minor – Moderate): Check for dripping pipes or water damage on cabinet floors, often caused by loose connections, worn-out washers, or corroded pipes. There are some ways you can try to fix minor leaking pipes yourself before calling a plumber.
• Within walls (Moderate – Severe): Look for water stains, bubbling paint, or musty smells, which may indicate leaks from burst pipes due to freezing temperatures, aging, or high water pressure. These leaks can cause significant damage to walls, insulation, and electrical systems.
• Underground (Moderate – Severe): Unexplained wet patches in the yard or a sudden drop in water pressure may indicate a leak caused by shifting soil, tree root intrusion, or pipe corrosion. Underground leaks can be difficult to detect and repair, potentially leading to foundation issues and landscaping damage.

Faucets, taps, showerheads, and toilets are prone to leaks due to wear and tear or improper installation. Severity is generally minor to moderate, but persistent leaks can waste significant water and increase utility bills.

• Faucets / Taps (Minor): Dripping faucets waste water and indicate worn-out washers or cartridges, often caused by regular use and aging. Commonly occur with taps in your bathroom or kitchen.
• Showerheads (Minor – Moderate): Leaky showerheads can result from faulty seals or cracked pipes, often due to mineral buildup or corrosion.
• Toilets (Moderate): Running toilets often stem from flapper valve issues or flush valve leaks, leading to significant water waste. Causes include worn-out parts, improper installation, or sediment buildup.

Slab leaks occur in water lines running beneath concrete floors, posing water leak detection challenges and potentially severe consequences.

• Sound of running water (Moderate – Severe): Even when taps are off, you may hear water flowing, suggesting a leak in the pipes below the slab due to corrosion, abrasion, or poor installation. These leaks can erode the foundation and damage the flooring.
• Warm spots on the floor (Moderate – Severe): Unexplained warm areas can indicate a hot water line leak, often caused by pipe deterioration or ground movement. This can lead to significant water damage and structural issues.
• Cracks in walls or flooring (Severe): Concrete Slab leaks can cause foundation shifts and damage due to water pressure and soil erosion around the leak, requiring extensive repairs.

Weather damage, debris buildup, and aging contribute to roof and gutter leaks. Severity can vary depending on the leak’s extent and the water entry’s location.

• Water spots on your Ceiling (Moderate – Severe): Look for discolouration or dampness on ceilings after rain, indicating a leak in the roof due to missing or damaged shingles, flashing issues, or cracks. These leaks can damage ceilings, walls, and insulation.
• Overflowing gutters (Minor – Moderate): Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow and seep into the foundation. Debris buildup, improper sloping, or damaged gutters are common culprits. This can lead to basement flooding and foundation damage over time.
• Damaged or missing shingles (Minor – Severe): Inspect your roof for visible signs of wear and tear caused by storms, wind, or age. Missing or damaged shingles expose the roof deck to water damage and potential leaks.

Washing machines, dishwashers, and water heaters are susceptible to leaks due to hose deterioration or internal malfunctions. Severity is typically minor to moderate but can cause water damage and mould growth if left unaddressed.

• Pooling water (Minor – Moderate): Check for water around the base of appliances after use, which may indicate leaks from worn-out hoses, loose connections, or internal component failures.
• Dampness or musty smells (Moderate): Investigate any signs of moisture near appliances, as it may indicate a slow leak or condensation issue due to improper ventilation or damaged seals. This can promote mould growth and damage surrounding cabinets or flooring.
• Decreased performance (Minor – Moderate): Leaks can affect appliance efficiency and lead to decreased water pressure or heating problems, requiring repair or replacement of components.

Sewer and drain leaks pose health risks due to potential sewage contamination and require immediate attention (Severe).

• Foul odours: A persistent sewage smell indicates a possible leak caused by cracks or breaks in sewer lines, often due to aging, tree root intrusion, or ground movement.
• Slow drains or backups: Frequent clogs or slow drainage may point to a blockage or leak in drain lines, caused by grease buildup, foreign objects, or pipe damage.
• Lush patches in the yard: Sewage leaks can fertilize grass, creating unusually green areas due to the high nutrient content of wastewater.

Leaks in irrigation systems waste water and can damage landscaping. Severity ranges from minor to moderate depending on the size and location of the leak.

• Unexplained wet areas (Minor – Moderate): Look for soggy patches or puddles in the yard, which may indicate leaks from broken sprinkler heads, cracked pipes, or malfunctioning valves.
• Hissing sounds (Minor – Moderate): A hissing noise near sprinkler heads or valves suggests a leak due to high water pressure, loose connections, or damaged components.
• High water bills (Moderate): A sudden spike in water usage may indicate an irrigation leak, especially if not explained by increased watering needs. This can lead to higher water bills and potential water restrictions.

Discovering a water leak can be alarming, but taking swift and appropriate action is key to minimising damage and preventing further issues. The right course of action depends on the severity and source of the leak, ranging from simple DIY fixes to calling in a professional plumber.

According to the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal. (2020, June). Review of Prices for Sydney Water from 1 July 2020 [Final Report], Sydney’s population is growing, increasing our need for water. Until recently, the region was facing severe drought, with dam levels falling at an unprecedented rate. This has shown how variable our climate has become, highlighting the importance of leak detection and water conservation.

For minor leaks, such as a dripping faucet or a loose connection under the sink, DIY leak detection may be feasible. However, for more complex leaks, leaks within walls or under floors, or those involving sewer lines, it’s crucial to seek professional assistance. Plumbers have the expertise and specialised tools like acoustic water leak detectors to diagnose the problem accurately, locate hidden leaks, and implement effective water leak repairs.

• Tighten Loose Connections: Often, leaks under sinks or around toilets stem from loose connections. Use a wrench to carefully tighten the fittings, but avoid overtightening which can damage the components.
• Replace Worn Washers or Seals: Dripping faucets or showerheads often require a simple washer or O-ring replacement. These are readily available at hardware stores and are relatively easy to install.
• Clear Clogged Drains: Slow drains or backups may be resolved by clearing clogs using a plunger or a drain snake. Avoid using harsh chemical drain cleaners, which can damage pipes.

• Seek Recommendations: Ask friends, family, or neighbours for referrals to trusted plumbers in your area.
• Check Online Reviews: Research plumbers online and read customer reviews to gauge their reputation and reliability. Here at North East Plumbing, we have over 150 five-star reviews on our Google My Business profile.
• Verify Licensing and Insurance: Ensure the plumber you choose is licensed and insured to protect yourself from liability in case of accidents or damage.