How to Detect Hidden Water Leaks in Your Home

Water leaks can be sneaky, especially in older homes. A hidden leak may not be obvious until it causes significant damage — from warped floors to mold growth or high water bills. At Cotton City Plumbing, we help Lubbock homeowners detect and fix leaks early to prevent costly repairs.

Here’s how to spot hidden water leaks before they become emergencies.

1. Check Your Water Meter

One of the simplest ways to detect a hidden leak is by using your water meter:

1. Make sure all water sources in your home are turned off.

2. Note the reading on your water meter.

3. Wait 1–2 hours without using water.

4. Check the meter again — if it has changed, you likely have a leak.

Tip: Some meters have a small triangle or dial that moves when water flows, which is especially useful for detecting slow leaks.

2. Monitor Your Water Bill

A sudden spike in your water bill can indicate a leak, even if you don’t see water pooling anywhere. Compare your current bill to previous months — if it’s unusually high, it’s time to investigate.

3. Look for Visible Signs of Leaks

Some leaks leave obvious clues. Check for:

• Water stains on ceilings, walls, or floors

• Peeling paint or wallpaper

• Warped or buckling flooring

• Mold or mildew growth

Tip: Hidden leaks often start small, so catching these signs early can prevent serious damage.

4. Listen for Drips and Running Water

Even when faucets are off, you might hear:

• Dripping sounds in walls or ceilings

• Running water in toilets or pipes

Tip: If your toilet runs continuously, it could be a leaky flapper — a common hidden water waste source.

5. Inspect Plumbing Fixtures and Appliances

Leaks can also occur around:

• Under sinks

• Behind toilets

• Around water heaters

• Washing machines and dishwashers

Tip: Check for puddles, corrosion, or moisture around connections and hoses.

6. Check for Foundation or Landscaping Damage

Hidden leaks sometimes manifest outside the home as:

• Wet spots in the yard or unusually lush patches of grass

• Cracks in the foundation or driveway

• Pooling water near the home’s exterior

These can indicate broken underground pipes or sewer line issues.

7. Call a Professional for Leak Detection

Some leaks are nearly impossible to find without professional tools, like:

• Thermal imaging cameras

• Moisture meters

• Acoustic leak detection equipment

At Cotton City Plumbing, our team can quickly locate and repair hidden leaks before they cause major damage.

Prevent Costly Damage with Early Detection

Hidden leaks can lead to:

• Mold and mildew growth

• Structural damage

• Higher water bills

• Premature pipe or appliance failure

Detecting leaks early saves money, protects your home, and gives peace of mind.

Trust Cotton City Plumbing for Leak Detection in Lubbock

Whether it’s a slow leak behind a wall or a stubborn underground pipe issue, Cotton City Plumbing provides professional leak detection and repair for Lubbock homeowners.