As you likely know, water leaks are arguably a homeowner's worst nightmare. According to estimates presented by the Environmental Protection Agency, the average household wastes more than 10,000 gallons of water a year through undetected leaks. Let's look at a few smart things you can do to help identify any leaks in your home.

1. Try the Water Meter Test

A water meter test is a smart way to help you detect leaks in your home. During a water meter test, you turn off all the faucets in your home and check the meter. If this meter is still running, you definitely have a leak somewhere. Keep in mind that you might not see the difference in the meter immediately. If the meter doesn't change, come back in a few hours. If there's any change after that time, that's an indication that you have a leak.

2. Try the Water Pressure Test

A water pressure test can also be helpful. You can conduct this type of test by turning all the faucets off and measuring the pressure. If the pressure is lower than normal, there's likely to be a water leak somewhere.

3. Check for the Sound of Running Water

You might be able to detect a leak simply because you can hear the water leaking. You might notice this behind the walls or flooring. If you notice the sound of water running when it shouldn't, you should investigate further to see if there's a leak.

4. Check Your Appliances

Appliances can be a big culprit when it comes to water leaks in the home. Conduct a leak check on all your appliances that use water. Just be sure to unplug the appliances first. If the appliance is turned off and unplugged, you might start to notice a small, dripping leak from the appliance. Water heaters, in particular, are prone to leaks. Make sure you have hot water heater repairs done quickly.

5. Check Your Toilets

Toilets are also a prime spot for water leaks as well. You can easily conduct a leak check in your toilet with a little food coloring. Drop a little food coloring into the tank of the toilet overnight. If there's any color in the bowl of the toilet in the morning, you know that your tank is running water when it shouldn't. This can get quite expensive if you don't have it fixed.

If you think you might have a leaking water heater, don't hesitate to call in professionals for hot water heater repairs soon. If you need help in the Omaha area, give Plumbing Today LLC a call! We're here for all your heater repair needs.