How to Find a Plumbing Leak: A Step-by-Step Guide

Greetings, DIYers and homeowners alike! Plumbing leaks are never convenient—but they don’t have to be overwhelming. With this simple step-by-step guide, you can find the source of most household leaks and stop the water damage before it gets worse.

Step 1: Look for Visible Signs

Start with the obvious. Check walls, ceilings, and floors for water stains, soft spots, or mold. Don’t forget under sinks, behind appliances, and near your water heater—these areas often hide small but growing leaks.

Step 2: Check Your Water Meter

Think you have a leak but don’t see one? Try this: turn off everything that uses water, then check your water meter. If it’s still moving, you’ve probably got a hidden leak somewhere in your system.

Step 3: Listen Carefully

Leaks make noise—even small ones. Listen for dripping, hissing, or running water in quiet places like basements, garages, or crawl spaces. You’d be surprised what your ears can catch that your eyes can’t.

Step 4: Use Food Coloring

Got a toilet that seems to run constantly? Add a few drops of food coloring to the tank and wait 15 minutes. If colored water shows up in the bowl without flushing, you’ve got a slow leak.

Did you know a tiny drip can waste over 3,000 gallons of water per year? That’s enough to fill a small pool—or make your water bill cry. Don’t ignore those little leaks!

Step 5: Call in the Pros

If you’ve tried everything and still can’t find the leak, it’s time to call Donnie’s Plumbing. We use leak detection cameras, pressure sensors, and moisture meters to find leaks fast—before they cause serious damage.

Why Catching Leaks Early Matters

Even small plumbing leaks can lead to big problems: mold, rot, high water bills, and structural damage. Catching them early can save you thousands in repairs and headaches later on.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I have a hidden leak?
Unexplained water bills, musty smells, or sounds of water running are big red flags. Also check your water meter for movement when everything is off.

Can a small leak cause major damage?
Absolutely. It starts as a tiny drip behind the wall and ends with a moldy mess, ruined drywall, or a fat insurance claim. Don’t wait till your baseboards start bubbling—get it looked at now.

Is food coloring really effective for detecting toilet leaks?
Absolutely. It’s one of the easiest DIY leak tests you can do—and it often catches silent leaks inside the tank.

What if I still can’t find the leak?
That’s when you call us. We have specialized equipment to find even the most hidden leaks quickly and cleanly.

About Donnie’s Plumbing

At Donnie’s Plumbing in Murrieta, CA, we specialize in fast, affordable leak detection and plumbing repairs. Our licensed team uses modern tools to solve the problem right the first time—without tearing apart your home.

Need help now? Call us at (954) 636-0085 or visit our website. We proudly serve Murrieta, Temecula, and surrounding areas with 24/7 service you can count on.