Two slow plumbing leaks that signal catastrophe

If you notice puddles near your water heater, check the pressure relief valve and the drain valve. If either is dripping, replace the valve. Otherwise, the tank is leaking and you need a new water heater. Don’t delay. Tank leaks often start slow and then suddenly burst days or weeks later, causing a major household flood.

The same goes for washing machine supply hoses. If you notice a tiny leak in the hose itself or at the crimped metal fittings at the ends, replace the hose. Otherwise the hose may eventually burst, releasing a continuous flow of water.

Test for hidden plumbing leaks

The vast majority of leaks occur at or near plumbing fixtures like tubs, sinks and toilets. But if you suspect a leak in the water supply system, there’s a simple way to check it— even if the pipes are hidden inside walls.

First, turn off all your faucets. If you have drippy faucets or a toilet that runs between flushes, close the shutoff valves. Then go to your water meter and check the position of the “1-cu.-ft.” dial. Check the dial again two hours later. If the dial has moved, you have a leak in the water supply.