How Do I Check If I Have a Water Leak in Melbourne?

How to Check If You Have a Water Leak at Home

Unexplained increases in your water bill, wet patches in your garden, or the sound of running water when everything is turned off are all signs of a possible water leak. Here's how to check, starting with what you can do yourself.

Step 1 — Check Your Water Meter

Turn off all water outlets in the house — taps, the dishwasher, washing machine, everything. Go to your water meter (usually near the front boundary) and watch the dial or digital display. If the meter is still moving with all outlets off, water is flowing somewhere it shouldn't be. Note the reading, wait 30 minutes without using any water, and check again. If the reading has changed, you have a leak.

Step 2 — Check Your Toilet Cisterns

Leaking cisterns are one of the most common sources of hidden water loss. Drop a few drops of food colouring into each toilet cistern. Wait 10 minutes without flushing. If colour appears in the bowl, the cistern is leaking through the flush valve. A leaking cistern can waste hundreds of litres per day. Flush valve replacement is a straightforward plumbing repair.

Step 3 — Check Visible Pipes and Connections

Look under sinks, behind washing machines, and around visible pipe connections for moisture, corrosion, or staining. Check the area around your hot water system for pooling water or rust streaks. Check irrigation systems and outdoor taps for drips or wet soil in dry weather.

When You Need a Professional Leak Detector

If the meter test shows a leak but you can't find it by visual inspection, the leak is most likely underground or inside a wall. ATC Plumbing uses acoustic and thermal leak detection equipment to precisely locate hidden leaks without unnecessary excavation. We can pinpoint the leak location within centimetres, minimising the disruption of any required repair. Call 1300 282 758 for professional leak detection across Melbourne's south-east.