Slab Leak Detection in Lakeland, FL

Signs of a slab leak

A water bill that jumps with no change in use, a warm or damp patch on tile or carpet, the sound of water running when nothing is on, cracks that appear in floor tile, mildew under flooring, or low pressure at every tap. A hot water line leaking under the slab also keeps the water heater running.

Check your meter first

Turn off every tap, the dishwasher, the washer and any irrigation. Then look at the meter's small leak indicator or note the reading and check it again in an hour. If it moved, water is going somewhere.

How plumbers find the spot

Plumbers use pressure tests to work out which line is leaking, then listening equipment and sometimes thermal cameras to narrow down where it is under the floor. Finding the spot first means less concrete gets opened.

Repair options

A leak can be fixed by opening the floor at that spot, by running a new line around the slab through walls or the attic, or by replacing several lines at once if the pipe is failing in more than one place. The plumber explains the options and the price before starting.

Lakeland ground and pipes

Sandy soil, a high water table near the lakes and slab construction are common here. Ground movement and pipe rubbing against concrete can wear a line over the years. If your house has had one slab leak, ask whether the rest of the piping is the same age.

Water off, then wait

If the meter is spinning and you can't track down the leak, keep the main off when you don't need water and send a request and a plumber will get in touch.