Even a small hidden water leak can cause big trouble over time—wasting water, raising your utility bills, and quietly damaging your home’s foundation or walls. At The Water Guy Plumbing, we help homeowners across Arizona catch these problems early. Here are 5 warning signs of a hidden leak and what you should do if you spot one.

1. Sudden Spike in Your Water Bill

If your water usage hasn’t changed but your bill keeps climbing, a hidden leak could be the culprit. Even a slow, constant drip behind a wall or under a slab can waste thousands of gallons over time.

What to do:

Turn off all water inside and outside your home, then check your water meter. If it’s still moving, you likely have a leak somewhere in the system.

2. Musty Smells or Mold in Strange Places

Mold and mildew thrive in dark, damp environments—especially behind walls, under sinks, or beneath flooring. If you smell a musty odor but can’t see any visible moisture, it’s worth investigating.

What to do:

Look for soft spots on walls or floors, bubbling paint, or discolored patches. If you suspect moisture, call a plumber before mold spreads and remediation costs rise.

3. Low Water Pressure in One or More Fixtures

A sudden drop in water pressure (especially in just one area of the house) could indicate a leak or blockage in the plumbing line. It might be from corrosion, a cracked pipe, or even a pinhole leak slowly getting worse.

What to do:

If cleaning the faucet aerator or showerhead doesn’t help, it’s time to have the supply line inspected.

4. Stained Ceilings or Wall Patches

Brown or yellow water spots on the ceiling or walls often mean water is leaking from a pipe above. These stains can grow over time and eventually lead to sagging drywall or structural damage.

What to do:

Don’t just paint over it—find the source of the leak. Professional leak detection tools can pinpoint the location without tearing into walls.

5. Wet Spots or Warm Floors

Noticed a warm or wet area on the floor—especially if it’s tile or concrete? That could be a slab leak, where water is escaping from pipes buried beneath your home’s foundation. Left untreated, this can erode concrete and cause major foundation damage.

What to do:

Call a licensed plumber immediately. Slab leaks require specialized detection and careful repair to prevent long-term damage.

Don’t Wait—Leaks Get Worse, Not Better

If you suspect a hidden water leak, don’t put it off. The sooner it’s found, the easier (and cheaper) it is to fix. At The Water Guy Plumbing, we use advanced leak detection tools to locate problems fast—without unnecessary damage to your home.

Need help now? Contact us today to schedule your leak inspection and protect your home from hidden plumbing problems.

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