For homeowners, noticing a sudden spike in water bills with no obvious reason is an instant cause for concern. After checking water usage, adjusting habits, and taking other measures, it’s frustrating to see the bills continuing to rise.  But there’s a hidden culprit many don’t consider.

External leaks are often difficult to detect and can go unnoticed for weeks or even months, quietly draining both the water supply and a homeowner’s finances. Fortunately, the experts at Absolute Leak Detection specialises in identifying and repairing these elusive leaks. We explain why external leaks are tricky to identify and how our expert team can help homeowners restore normal function while reducing their bills.

 

Why External Leaks are Often Undetected

External leaks are any water leaks that occur outside the home, usually in the pipes leading to or from the property. These leaks can happen in various areas, including the water main, garden irrigation systems, or even the pipework running under the driveway. Because these pipes are buried underground or hidden behind walls and landscaping, it’s easy for these leaks to go unnoticed.

 

Underground Location

One of the main reasons external leaks are often undetected is that they’re located underground. Unless water starts pooling on the surface, the leak can remain hidden. Even a small leak in an underground pipe can go unnoticed for a long time, especially if the water is seeping into the ground rather than flowing visibly onto your property.

 

Slow Leakage

External leaks may not always release water quickly, so that they can be gradual and subtle. This slow leakage might not be immediately evident in a home’s water usage, either, making it harder to detect. Over time, however, these small leaks can add up and result in a significant increase in water bills.

 

Absence of Immediate Signs

While an indoor leak might present noticeable signs, such as water stains, dampness, or mould, an external leak doesn’t always leave such obvious clues. If the leak is underground or hidden behind structures such as fences, bushes, or driveways, it can go undetected until it becomes a bigger issue. By the time it’s noticed, the problem may have been ongoing for a while.

 

How External Leaks Cause High Water Bills

When a pipe or water main develops a leak, the water doesn’t just disappear; it’s lost. While some of it might seep into the ground, most of it is still being paid for, even though it’s not being used productively. Over time, even a small leak can cause a home’s water consumption to skyrocket, and as a result, their monthly water bills can increase substantially. Here are some ways an external leak can lead to higher costs:

  • Continuous Flow – A leaky pipe allows water to flow continuously, even when it’s not being used. This ongoing water loss means that homeowners are paying for water that they’re not actually using. 
  • Hidden Waste – Unlike indoor leaks, which are more obvious, an external leak may be underground, and they’re usually not noticed until there is a sudden spike in a home’s monthly water bill. 
  • Escalating Issues – The longer an external leak goes untreated, the worse it can get. A small crack in a pipe can eventually turn into a larger rupture, causing even more water loss and an even bigger hit to a homeowner’s wallet.

 

How Absolute Leak Detection Can Help

For those struggling with high water bills and suspecting an external leak, it’s important to act quickly. Here at Absolute Leak Detection, we specialise in finding and repairing external leaks, saving homeowners across Hounslow from the financial burden of an unexplained water bill hike.

 

Expert Leak Detection

We use expert leak detection techniques to quickly and accurately identify the source of the problem. Using non-invasive methods, we can pinpoint the exact location of the leak without disruptive digging or excavation. This ensures minimal damage to the property and a quicker, more efficient repair process.

 

Thorough Inspections

Our technicians conduct thorough inspections of the external plumbing system, from the water main to irrigation systems, checking for any signs of leaks. By using state-of-the-art tools, including acoustic and thermal imaging equipment, we can detect even the smallest leaks, often before they cause significant damage.

 

Efficient Repairs

Once the leak is located, we carry out the necessary repairs to restore a home’s water system to normal. Whether it’s fixing a cracked pipe, replacing a faulty valve, or resealing a joint, we have the skills and tools needed to handle any external leak repair. We aim to fix the problem promptly, so there’s no need to worry about water bills continuing to rise.

 

Preventive Advice

At Absolute Leak Detection, we also offer valuable advice on how to prevent future issues. We can provide tips on maintaining water pipes, detecting early signs of leaks, and ensuring the water system runs as efficiently as possible. By taking preventative measures, homeowners can avoid future headaches and keep the water bills in check.

 

Why it’s Important to Act Now

Unexplained high water bills can be frustrating, but an external leak could be the hidden cause. These leaks are often difficult to detect, but their impact on a homeowner’s budget is undeniable. If you suspect an external leak, then Absolute Leak Detection is ready to help. We pride ourselves on providing effective, hassle-free leak detection and repairs, ensuring peace of mind for homeowners across Hounslow.

Don’t let an external leak continue draining your finances. If you’re experiencing high water bills and need professional leak detection and repairs, get in touch with us today. We’ll help you uncover the hidden cause of your water problems and fix it before it costs you any more.