Water leaks aren’t always obvious. Some of the most damaging leaks happen behind walls, under floors, or beneath your foundation—where they go unnoticed for weeks or months. A hidden water leak can waste thousands of gallons of water, raise your utility bills, and cause costly structural damage before you even know it’s there.

For Burleson homeowners, learning how to detect these leaks early can save you time, money, and major headaches. Here’s how to tell if you have one—and what to do about it.

Common Signs of a Hidden Water Leak

Not all leaks are visible, but they often leave clues behind. Watch for these warning signs that water may be escaping somewhere in your plumbing system:

  • Unexplained Increase in Water Bills – A sudden spike in your monthly bill could mean water is leaking from a pipe you can’t see.

  • Mold or Mildew Growth – Even small leaks can create humid conditions that allow mold to thrive behind walls or under flooring.

how to tell if you have a hidden water leak

  • Damp or Discolored Walls and Ceilings – Brown or yellow water stains are classic indicators of moisture buildup.

  • Musty Odors – Persistent smells often point to hidden moisture or rotting materials.

  • Warm or Cold Spots on Floors – These may indicate a leak in your hot or cold water lines, especially if you have a slab foundation.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to take a closer look—or better yet, call in a professional to inspect.

Where Hidden Leaks Commonly Occur

Some areas of your home are more prone to hidden leaks than others. The most common locations include:

  • Behind Walls – Especially near bathrooms and kitchens where plumbing is concentrated.

  • Under Slab Foundations – Burleson homes with concrete slabs often experience slab leaks that can lead to foundation damage.

  • In Crawl Spaces or Basements – Leaks in these areas may go undetected until water damage is extensive.

  • Under Appliances – Dishwashers, water heaters, and washing machines can all develop slow leaks over time.

If your home has older pipes, corrosion and shifting soil can increase the likelihood of hidden leaks developing.

How Professionals Detect Hidden Water Leaks

Modern plumbing technology makes it easier than ever to find leaks without tearing apart walls or floors. Professional plumbers use advanced tools such as:

  • Acoustic Leak Detectors – These devices pick up the sound of water escaping under pressure.

  • Thermal Imaging Cameras – Detect temperature differences caused by water pooling behind surfaces.

  • Moisture Meters – Identify dampness in walls or flooring.

  • Video Inspection Equipment – Tiny cameras inserted into pipes allow plumbers to see cracks, corrosion, or blockages up close.

If you suspect a leak, calling a licensed plumber for a leak detection service is the most accurate and least invasive way to confirm it.

What Makes Hidden Leaks So Dangerous

A hidden water leak isn’t just a plumbing problem—it’s a property risk. Water can seep into walls, flooring, and foundations, weakening structural materials over time. Left unchecked, leaks can cause:

  • Mold and Mildew Growth

  • Foundation Cracks

  • Wood Rot and Termite Infestations

  • Increased Utility Costs

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), household leaks waste nearly one trillion gallons of water annually in the U.S.—enough to supply millions of homes each year. That’s not just bad for your wallet, but also for the environment.

What You Can Do to Prevent Hidden Leaks

While not all leaks are avoidable, you can take proactive steps to reduce your risk:

  1. Schedule Regular Plumbing Inspections – Early detection saves thousands in damage.

  2. Monitor Your Water Bill – Even small, consistent increases could indicate a leak.

  3. Check Your Water Meter – Turn off all water and see if the meter still moves—if it does, you may have a leak.

  4. Maintain Appliances – Inspect hoses and connections on dishwashers, water heaters, and washing machines regularly.

  5. Use a Water Leak Detection System – Smart sensors can alert you to leaks before they cause serious harm.

Superior Plumbing is the Superior Option

If you suspect a hidden water leak, the team at Superior Plumbing can help. Their licensed professionals use state-of-the-art equipment to locate leaks quickly and accurately—without unnecessary demolition. Whether it’s a slab leak, a slow drip behind a wall, or a faulty fixture, they provide honest, upfront pricing and lasting solutions.

In addition to leak detection, they offer drain cleaning and sewer pipe inspections to ensure your plumbing system runs efficiently and safely.

Real Testimonial

“We noticed our water bill kept rising, but we couldn’t find any leaks. Superior Plumbing came out, found the problem under our slab, and fixed it without tearing up our home. They were professional and fast—highly recommend them!” – Carla M.

Suspect a Water Leak?

A hidden water leak can cause extensive damage long before you see a single drop. Don’t wait until small leaks turn into major repairs. Superior Plumbing offers fast, reliable service for Burleson homeowners who want peace of mind knowing their plumbing is in expert hands.

Call today to schedule a professional leak inspection and protect your home from unnecessary damage.