Menu

Call This Tuesday to Get $50 OFF

banner
5.0 RATING

Easy Ways to Find Hidden Water Leaks in Your Home

The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that the average U.S. household's leaks can account for over 10,000 gallons of wasted water every year.

May 05, 2026
Easy Ways to Find Hidden Water Leaks in Your Home

The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that the average U.S. household’s leaks can account for over 10,000 gallons of wasted water every year. That is enough water to wash 270 loads of laundry! Worse, the hidden leaks can cause devastating water damage and disrupt the structural integrity of your building. Professional leak detections and leak repairs by the qualified plumbers at Mr. Rooter Plumbing can help, and we recommend you schedule annual inspections. However, there are some ways you can spot leaks too. Here are some easy ways to detect hidden water leaks in your home. Feel free to call Mr. Rooter Plumbing if you would like a dedicated plumber to take a look.

Our Customers Reviews

Larry R.

Howell Township, NJ

It was a late Saturday night. We had a super stubborn clog in some old galvanized pipes. Mr. Rooter send out Phil. Phil was great! He found the problem pretty quick. With determination and professionalism he final got it cleared out. I would recommend Mr. Rooter and Phil to anyone! He even cleaned up. We are so happy we choose Mr. Rooter!

Rose Bernard

Red Bank, NJ

We had a plumbing emergency and found Mr. Rooter while frantically searching for a 24-hour plumber. We feel like we hit a gold mine. Not only did we get a timely response. Everyone at Mr. Rooter was friendly, professional, competent and went above and beyond. Our plumber, Phil, was extremely helpful and gave us tips we could use moving firwars. Not to mention, the cost was extremely reasonable.

Joseph Chis

Hillsborough, NJ

Had sewer water backup in toilet and tub. Received callback as promised and arrived early. The tech determined we needed the main line to be cleared. He quickly located the opening and had us cleared in minutes. Very happy with the service. I was not prepared for the fee but it was an emergency.

Christopher Cox

Little Silver Township

Plumber, Phil, came out on short notice on a Saturday night and fixed our issue quickly, professionally and courteously. I contacted a different, well known plumbing company right before Mr. Rooter. The receptionist was rude and they didn’t call me back to say they couldn’t make it until after Phil left! The Mr. Rooter receptionist was very nice and they called me back quickly. I’m glad they did.

Debbie Dimitrion

Colts Neck, NJ

I just wanted to say James did a great job at my house. Excellent service, professional and very nice. Thank you so much for helping me with my plumbing problem. Did wonderful job.

Rachel Turunen

Jackson Township

I was very happy that I went with Mr. Rooter’s. The service was very quick and up front. Jessie James was very helpful answering my questions and replacing my hot water heater. He was pleasurable to do business with. If another problem arises in my home, I will be using this company again.

William Holden

Brick Township, NJ

A thorough, professional, pleasant experience. I had a back-up in the 50 year-old pipes of my new home. I called Mr. Rooter to have them locate the blockage, snake the line, and then use their video snake to get a visual of the integrity of the pipes. I’m glad that I called and will use them again for future needs.

LarJ MarJ

Oakhurst, NJ

You get what you pay for. Edwin Robles of Central NJ educated me as a 1st time homebuyer on why and what he was repairing, prevention, PROMPT,(on a sunday at that!) clean, knowledgeable, super professional but DOWN TO EARTH and at a REASONABLE PRICE! Sewer pipes unclogged and main water line fixed. I was no longer crying once job was thoroughly executed. After all $#@* $tinks but somebody has to do it and I HIGHLY recommend him and this company for a job well done. THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!

Margie Rafferty-Criscione

Ocean Township

Absolutely lovely office staff! I always knew when the repair person was coming. Lorenzo our repair guy was awesome, I really don't think there is anything he can't do. He looks young, but don't let that fool you! So happy all the repairs are behind us. We really just did a one-stop shopping and decided to have everything we've put off fixed because it was such a tremendous experience!

Easy Ways to Find Hidden Water Leaks in Your Home

Track Your Water Bills

Be mindful and read between the lines. Has your water bill suddenly spiked? This would be expected if you have installed new appliances or, for example, a jacuzzi. But if your usage has been the same and the water bills are rising, then you might have a hidden leak somewhere in your house.

Check the Water Meter

The water meter measures to amount of water running through your plumbing system. It is also a great tool to check for hidden leaks. Tu off all the water in your home, making sure all faucets are shut off and no appliances are using water. Then, head out to check the water meter. If the water meter is changing, then you likely have a fast-moving leak. If it is not moving, then wait for about 30 minutes to an hour and check again. If the meter has changed even though all of the water in the house has been off, then you likely have a slow water leak.

Perform a Visual Inspection

Hidden leaks are difficult to pinpoint without special tools and equipment, but you can catch the signs of water damage. Take a walk around your home and look for evidence of leaks. Signs of a leak include dripping sounds, water stains, peeling paint and wallpaper, mold and mildew growth, and, of course, puddles of water. Some specific locations to check are beneath sinks and toilets, around the water heater and appliances, near the sump pump, around outside hose bibs, and in the basement.

The Food Dye Test for Toilet Leaks

Toilet leaks are especially common but can be subtle. Luckily, there is a quick test you can perform. Carefully remove the toilet lid and place it somewhere safe. Add a few drops of food coloring into the toilet tank and leave it there for about half an hour. After thirty minutes is up, check the toilet bowl. If the food coloring has come through the tank and into the toilet bowl, then you have a toilet leak. Some of the inteal components of the toilet tank likely need to be repaired or replaced.

Schedule A Professional Leak Detection

If you prefer to get surefire results, then schedule a professional leak detection with Mr. Rooter Plumbing. We are also happy to arrange an emergency dispatch. Call now to speak with a live representative.

Latest Updates & Blog Posts

The Worst Things We've Found Inside Garbage Disposals
Apr 22, 2026

The Worst Things We've Found Inside Garbage Disposals

The Worst Things We’ve Found Inside Garbage Disposals Garbage disposals are one of the most convenient features in any kitchen,…

Read More
What Plumbers Wish You Knew About Your Water Line
Apr 20, 2026

What Plumbers Wish You Knew About Your Water Line

What Plumbers Wish You Knew About Your Water LineYour home’s water line is one of the most important parts of…

Read More
Do Older Homes Always Need Sewer Replacement?
Apr 12, 2026

Do Older Homes Always Need Sewer Replacement?

Do Older Homes Always Need Sewer Replacement?Older homes have charm, character, and history—but they can also come with aging plumbing…

Read More
How Drain Cleaning Improves Water Flow and Reduces Plumbing Issues
Apr 05, 2026

How Drain Cleaning Improves Water Flow and Reduces Plumbing Issues

How Drain Cleaning Improves Water Flow and Reduces Plumbing IssuesClogged or slow drains are more than just a minor inconvenience—they…

Read More
The Worst Things We've Found Inside Garbage Disposals
Apr 22, 2026

The Worst Things We've Found Inside Garbage Disposals

The Worst Things We’ve Found Inside Garbage Disposals Garbage disposals are one of the most convenient features in any kitchen,…

Read More
What Plumbers Wish You Knew About Your Water Line
Apr 20, 2026

What Plumbers Wish You Knew About Your Water Line

What Plumbers Wish You Knew About Your Water LineYour home’s water line is one of the most important parts of…

Read More