Common Water Leak Issues

COMMENTARY

• Builders rarely install separate shutoff valves for house, yard and pool water lines causing inconvenience during repairs
• Pools and irrigation systems are usually connected to the nearest hose bib for ease of installation limiting individual control
• Identifying underground leaks can be difficult due to soil absorption in Arizona
• Systems like reverse osmosis units with faulty automatic clean cycles can cause continuous water flow unnoticed by residents

Detection Technologies

COMMENTARY

• Automated leak detectors like Moen’s sensor can shut off your home’s main water line to prevent flooding
• New smart water meters offer real-time consumption tracking to spot unusual water usage quickly
• Hydrophones used in leak detection can sense leaks many feet underground and through pool walls
• Pool leak detection involves
  • Isolating and pressurizing separate plumbing lines
  • Sonar and dye testing to precisely locate leaks

Takeaways

COMMENTARY

• Desert clay soils can hide water leaks making them hard to detect visually
• Professional leak detection survey
  • Provides a comprehensive report with photos
  • Pinpoints leak locations before more targeted testing is done
  • Repair estimates are itemized allowing choices to prioritize what repairs should be done first
  • Homeowners are encouraged to perform leak surveys as a socially responsible act supporting water conservation

RESOURCE

• Pinpoint Leak Detection Property Leak Survey