
A sudden spike in your water bill can be frustrating. You haven’t changed your usage, yet the numbers keep climbing. The culprit? A hidden leak. Even a slow, unnoticed drip can waste thousands of litres a year, costing you money and damaging your home.
For homeowners and businesses, leak detection in Melbourne is essential. Melbourne’s mix of old and new plumbing infrastructure, combined with fluctuating weather conditions, makes properties vulnerable to leaks. Identifying the problem early saves water, prevents structural damage, and avoids unnecessary expenses.
Let’s break down how leaks impact your bill, where they hide, and how professionals can help you solve the mystery.
Why Is Your Water Bill Suddenly Higher?
Leaks account for a large percentage of unexplained water usage. Even a minor leak can result in thousands of litres of wasted water every month. Here are some common high water bill causes that could be affecting your property:
- Undetected pipe leaks – Cracked or corroded pipes, often hidden in walls or underground, continuously leak water.
- Faulty fixtures – A dripping tap may seem minor, but it can waste hundreds of litres per week.
- Running toilets – A toilet that runs non-stop can waste up to 200 litres per day.
- Irrigation system leaks – Outdoor leaks are harder to spot but can be just as costly.
If your water bill has jumped without explanation, it’s time to take a closer look at your plumbing system.
Signs You Have a Hidden Leak
Not all leaks are visible. Some develop behind walls, under floors, or underground. Knowing the signs of water leaks in homes can help you act before serious damage occurs:
- Unexplained water stains – Discoloured patches on walls or ceilings often indicate a slow leak inside.
- Damp or musty odours – Mould thrives in damp conditions, meaning a persistent smell could signal hidden moisture.
- Soft or warped flooring – Water pooling beneath floors can cause warping or soft spots.
- Constant sound of running water – If you hear water when no taps are on, there’s likely a hidden issue.
If you spot any of these red flags, it’s time to investigate further.
How to Check for Hidden Leaks
Before calling a professional, you can perform simple tests to confirm a leak. Here’s how to check for hidden leaks in your home:
- Monitor Your Water Meter – Turn off all taps and appliances that use water. Check the meter reading, wait an hour, then check again. If the numbers change, you have a leak.
- Use Food Colouring in Toilets – Add a few drops of food colouring to the toilet tank. If the colour appears in the bowl without flushing, there’s a leak.
- Look for Water Meter Movement – Even when no water is in use, the dial on your meter may move slightly, indicating a slow leak.
These DIY methods help confirm a problem, but professional water leak detection services provide more accurate results.
Professional Leak Detection Methods
Plumbers use specialised tools and techniques to find hidden water leaks without tearing apart your home. Some of the best methods for leak detection include:
- Acoustic sensors – These devices detect sound variations in pipes, pinpointing leaks.
- Infrared thermal imaging – Heat-sensitive cameras identify moisture behind walls or under floors.
- Gas tracer systems – Harmless gas is injected into pipes, and leaks are detected by sensors.
The cost of water leak detection varies depending on the method and complexity of the issue. However, investing in early detection can prevent much higher repair bills.
The Impact of Water Leaks on Property
Leaks aren’t just an inconvenience—they can cause severe property damage over time. The impact of water leaks on property includes:
- Structural weakening – Persistent leaks can rot wooden beams and weaken foundations.
- Mould and mildew growth – Excess moisture creates a breeding ground for mould, which can trigger respiratory issues.
- Higher repair costs – Fixing a minor leak early is far cheaper than dealing with extensive water damage.
That’s why the importance of early leak detection can’t be overstated. Addressing leaks early saves money and protects your home.
Underground Leaks: The Silent Problem
Some of the hardest leaks to detect are beneath the surface. Underground water leak detection is crucial for preventing long-term damage.
Signs you may have an underground leak include:
- Soggy or sunken patches in your yard
- Unusual water pooling around driveways or footpaths
- Sudden drop in water pressure
If you notice these issues, professional plumbing inspections for leaks can confirm the problem and provide targeted solutions.
Fixing High Water Bills: What’s the Solution?
If a leak is behind your rising costs, it’s time to act. Fixing high water bills starts with identifying the issue, repairing the source, and taking steps to prevent future problems.
Here’s how:
- Schedule routine inspections – Regular professional leak detection solutions help catch problems early.
- Upgrade to smart water meters – Some modern meters detect unusual usage patterns and alert you to potential leaks.
- Replace ageing pipes – Older pipes corrode and crack, leading to persistent leaks.
By focusing on water conservation and leak prevention, you protect your home and reduce costs.
When to Call a Plumber for Leaks
Not all leaks require urgent attention, but some do. When to call a plumber for leaks depends on the severity of the issue:
- Call immediately if – You have visible water damage, a burst pipe, or a major drop in pressure.
- Book an inspection if – Your bill keeps rising, but you can’t find the source of increased usage.
Professional plumbers have the tools and expertise to diagnose and fix leaks efficiently.
FAQs
1. How much water does a small leak waste?
Even a slow-dripping tap can waste over 20,000 litres a year. A running toilet can waste even more, significantly increasing your bill.
2. Can leaks cause long-term damage to my home?
Yes. Leaks weaken structures, promote mould growth, and lead to costly repairs. Early detection helps avoid serious damage.
3. How often should I check for leaks?
It’s a good idea to check your water meter monthly and schedule a professional inspection annually, especially in older homes.
4. Do all leaks require a plumber?
Not necessarily. Minor leaks like dripping taps can be fixed with basic DIY repairs. However, hidden or underground leaks require professional detection.
5. What’s the best way to prevent leaks?
Regular maintenance, upgrading old pipes, and installing leak detection devices can help prevent major water loss.
Stop the Drip Before It Costs You More
A hidden leak can drain your wallet without you even realising it. Whether it’s a small drip or a major underground issue, detecting leaks early prevents high bills and property damage.
If you suspect a leak, don’t wait. Contact Water Leak Detection to protect your home and save on water costs.
If you suspect you have a water leak, please call us for a free consultation today on 1300 425 325 or leave an inquiry.