Home Water Leak Detection: Signs and Solutions

Why Water Leaks Are Serious

A hidden leak rots walls, ruins drywall, breeds mould and can inflate your bill by thousands of lira per month. In Ayvalık’s semi-humid climate, leaks turn into mould fast. Here is how to detect and act quickly.

1. Early Signs

• Unexplained rise in water bill
• Paint bubbling or yellowing
• Swelling parquet or laminate
• Musty smell
• Yellow stain on the ceiling
• Running-water sound even when taps are off
• Drop in water pressure

2. Meter Test (5 Minutes)

1. Close every tap in the house
2. Stop washing machine, dishwasher and fridge water lines
3. Note the meter reading or small dial position
4. Wait 30 minutes with no usage
5. If the meter has moved, there is a leak

3. Locating the Leak

Close the main valve. If the meter still turns, the leak is before the main (buried pipe). If it stops, the leak is inside.

Zone Tests

• Kitchen: Under the sink and dishwasher valve
• Bathroom: Food-colour toilet tank test
• Boiler: Limescale underneath signals drips
• Inside walls: Hot or cold spots hint at hidden pipes

4. Professional Detection Tools

Acoustic listeners, thermal cameras, gas injection and endoscopic cameras pinpoint leaks without breaking walls.

5. Common Leaks and Fixes

Dripping Tap

Washer swap in 5 minutes. Pick the right size at Süm-Sel.

Toilet Fill Valve

Complete kit 150-300 TL. Remove old, fit new.

Pipe Joint Leak

PPRC needs reheated joint; metal pipes need re-threading. Epoxy kits give temporary fix.

Boiler Pressure Loss

Expansion tank or pressure valve may be faulty. Call service.

6. Prevention

• Annual plumbing check
• Smart leak sensors in kitchen and bath
• Water softener in hard-water areas
• Pressure reducer to keep below 3 bar
• Shut the main valve before holidays

Plumbing Solutions at Süm-Sel

PPRC pipes and fittings, valves, washer sets, leak sensors, pressure reducers and repair kits - all available at Süm-Sel Ayvalık’s plumbing section.