How to Fix Leaking Pipe at Home – Detect Leaking in 6 Steps

Noticed unexplained damp spots, high water bills, or musty smells in your home? You might have a hidden pipe leak. Leaking pipes can cause water damage, mold growth, and major repair costs if ignored. Some leaks are easy to see, like a dripping faucet or a leaking water heater. But other leaks, like those in toilet valves or hidden water lines, can go unnoticed for a long time.

Even small leaks can cause serious damage. They can ruin your floors, walls, and even the structure of your home. That’s why it’s important to fix a leaking pipe right away.

How Serious Can a Leaking Pipe Be?

A leaking pipe is not just wasted water, it is about:

• Water damage to walls, floors, or insulation
• Mold growth, which is harmful to health
• Structural issues, if the leak goes unnoticed for weeks
• Sky-high water bills that increases month after month

Even a pinhole leak can waste hundreds of litres water everyday. And if left unfixed, it can damage more than just house plumbing. That is why detecting and fixing pipe leaks quickly is important and easy if you knw where to start.

In a Hurry to Know How to Detect and Fix Leaking Pipe at Home?

1. Monitor Spikes in Water Bill
2. Check Water Meter when Water is off.
3. Inspect for Signs (Spot stains, dampness, or dripping sounds).
4. Test Toilet with dye for tank leaks.
5. Apply Temporary Fix or call a professional for repair.

Read on to stop leaks and save water in 2025!

Common Causes of Leaking Pipes in Canadian Homes

Corrosion

Old pipes, especially in older Toronto homes, can corrode over time. Galvanized steel and copper pipes wear down and let water through small holes. If your home has older pipes, consider replacing them with newer materials like PEX or PVC.

High Water Pressure

Too much water pressure can be a problem. It puts stress on your pipes. Over time, this causes leaks, especially at the joints. If you think your water pressure is too high, a pressure-reducing valve can help.

Damaged Joints

Pipe joints can wear out with age. Temperature changes, movement, and daily use can make them crack or loosen. When that happens, leaks start. A local plumber for leaking pipes in Toronto can check and repair these joints.

Freezing Temperatures

In winter, water in your pipes can freeze. Frozen water expands and may crack your pipes. That’s why pipe insulation is important, especially during cold Toronto winters. It helps prevent water damage before it starts.

Clogs in Pipes

Clogged pipes build up pressure. This pressure forces water out through weak spots. Over time, these turn into bigger leaks. Don’t pour grease or trash down the drain. Regular plumbing checks also help avoid clogs.

Tree Roots

Tree roots can grow into your underground pipes. They look for water and can crack your plumbing. If you notice slow drains or bad smells, tree roots might be the cause. Call for emergency plumbing services in Toronto if you think this is happening.

Loose Connectors

Appliance hoses, like those on washing machines or dishwashers, can come loose. Vibration and age make this worse. If you see leaks near your appliances, check the connectors.

Foundation Shifts

Houses move a little as they settle. Heavy rain, construction nearby, or poor drainage can shift the foundation. Pipes can move, too, which may cause hidden leaks. These aren’t easy to spot, but regular pipe inspections help.

Worn-Out Pipes

All pipes wear out eventually. If your pipes are old or have been fixed many times, it might be time to replace them. Newer pipes are safer and last longer.

6 Clear Signs You Have a Hidden Water Leak

Finding a leaking pipe early can save you from bigger repairs later. Water damage can build up fast, even from small leaks. That’s why it’s important to check your home regularly and know what signs to look for..

1. Sudden Increase in Water Bill

Check your water usage using the MyWaterToronto tool. A consistent increase in your bill with no change in usage = leak alert.

2. Water Meter Moving with Everything Off

Turn off all taps and appliances. If the meter still runs, water is escaping somewhere.

3. Water Stains or Discolored Walls

Look for yellow or brown marks on walls and ceilings. Dripping or rushing sounds behind walls are also a red flag.

4. Musty Smell or Mold

Damp, hidden leaks lead to mold. Check basements, behind appliances, and crawl spaces.

5. Toilet Dye Test

Add food coloring to the tank and wait 10 mins. If the bowl turns color, your flapper’s leaking.

6. Hearing Drips or Rushing Water

If you hear running water but can’t see any, there might be a slab leak or underground line crack.

Steps To Fix a Leaking Pipe at Home

If you see a small water leak at home, you might want to fix it yourself. There are a few simple ways to do that. These DIY fixes can help in the short term, but they will not solve the problem for good.

Step 1: Turn Off the Water

Turn off the main valve and open all taps to drain water before beginning.

Step 2: Try a Temporary Fix

Tools You Can Use:

• Pipe clamp to seals small cracks.
• Epoxy putty or pinhole leaks.
• Rubber repair tape to wraps around small leaks for temporary protection.

Note: These are quick fixes, not long-term solutions.

Why DIY Plumbing Does not Always Work

• They don not address hidden damage
• Risk of burst pipes or worsening the leak
• No access to pro tools or leak detection tech

If the leak returns or spreads, skip the guesswork and bring in a licensed plumber.

When to Call a Plumber

Call an expert immediately if:

• You have fixed the same leak more than once
• Water stains keep appearing
• Pipes have cracked, leaking heavily, or behind walls
• You notice a sudden drop in water pressure

Quick FAQs

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only. For professional assistance and advice, please contact experts.