Guide to Toronto Water Leak Detection

Rapid world population growth and lifestyle change contribute to the increased demand for water by mankind. Additionally, low-level rainfall in some parts of the world has slowed the replenishment of water supply.

Therefore, each one of us should make our best efforts in the conservation of one of the most precious commodities on our planet: water. One such effort is to watch out for water leaks in our Toronto homes, no matter how small those leaks might be.

Although some water leaks are so slow that they are undetectable, some known leaks are being ignored by Toronto homeowners. This is due to a lack of awareness that small leaks, left unchecked, can sum up to thousands of gallons in a year.

Moreover, water leaks not only contribute to worldwide water shortage, but also cause damage to parts of a house’s structure. Damage to structural elements can cause a home to deteriorate faster, collapse, and cause injuries to its occupants.

Water leak detection can either be done by periodically checking the areas and components of a home’s plumbing system or by installing a commercially available water leak detection device.

Two Types of Water Leak Detection Systems

  • Passive Leak Detection Systems – These are usually stand-alone, battery-operated devices that produce an alarm sound when their moisture sensor becomes wet. These alarms enable the homeowner to locate exactly where the water leak is and make the necessary repairs. Since these are battery-dependent devices, the battery should be checked regularly.
  • Active Leak Detection Systems – These also sound an alarm when they detect water leaks, and will automatically stop the water flow. They may use a moisture sensor or a flow sensor to monitor water leaks. There are two types of active leak detection systems:
    • Individual appliance systems – Monitor leaks from a single appliance and automatically shut off the water supply to that appliance should a leak be detected.
    • Whole house systems – Monitor leaks throughout the entire home and shut off the main water supply should a leak be detected. A whole house system is composed of several moisture sensors that send signals to control a valve via radio signal or wired connections.

Every house is unique and has specific conditions that determine what type of water leak detection system is applicable. Some simple systems may be installed by the homeowner, but complex systems should be handled by a qualified plumber.

If you don’t have a water leak detection device installed in your home, you can always check periodically for any water leaks — unless, of course, you already hear the sound of dripping water. Water leaks usually occur in areas where water-consuming appliances and plumbing fixtures are located. Among the most common areas to check for water leaks are:

  • Bathroom & toilet area (check for leaks on the showerhead, faucet, and water heating system)
  • Kitchen (check for leaks on the faucet, dishwasher, and water heating system)
  • Laundry room (check for leaks on the faucet and clothes washer)
  • Garage and basement area (check the evaporator cooler and hot water system)
  • Lawn (check turf, low-water-use garden, and irrigation system)
  • Pool and spa
  • Patio
  • Water meter

Detecting water leaks through sight and sound may seem straightforward. This may be true for fast and large leaks, but for slow and small leaks, it can be impossible to detect without the aid of a water leak detection device. Here are some tips for monitoring your home for possible water leaks:

  • Water is leaking in your toilet if water is moving from the tank to the bowl when nobody is flushing it.
  • Your toilet may have a leak if it flushes itself when nobody is near it.
  • Another method of detecting a toilet water leak is to place food coloring in the tank. If you see the color in the bowl after a few minutes, there is a leak.
  • Since most water pipes are embedded in walls and floors, leaks may only become apparent when you see discoloration on a wall, ceiling, or carpet.
  • Detecting water leaks in a sprinkling system is similar to spotting leaks in concealed piping systems.
  • One practical way to determine whether you have water leaks is to monitor your water bill. If your bill is higher than usual with the same consumption, consult a professional plumber or contact your local utility company.

Water leaks only worsen over time, so it is wise to address them as early as possible. Early detection and repair will save you money and prevent damage to your home. Ignoring a leak only postpones something that will need to be done regardless.