DIY Leak Test

DIY Leak Detection Meter Test

Important: DO NOT use any water during the test and ensure all the toilet taps are turned off.

This DIY water leak test guide is commonly used by homeowners
across Brisbane to check for hidden water leaks before calling a professional leak detection service.

If the leak indicator continues moving after this test,
you may have a hidden leak and professional leak detection may be required.

  1. Turn off all water fixtures inside and outside the house (including all taps, toilet valves, pool top up systems, irrigation systems, etc).
  2. Find your water meter. Most of the water meters are in a box on the ground near the front of the property.
  3. Take a photo or record the numbers on your water meter.
  4. Wait 30 minutes without using any water. Do not flush toilets or run any taps or appliances during this time.
  5. Check the water meter again. Take a photo or record the numbers.
  6. If the numbers did not change, it’s unlikely there’s a leak.
  7. If the numbers went up, there is a high chance of a leak.
  8. Record how much the numbers increased by and how long the test took. This shows the rough number of liters of water that may be leaking.
  9. Contact Max Leak Detection for professional investigation. Share your notes and meter photos to help us find the problem faster.

Note:
– If there are turned on water fixtures, it could trigger false readings.
– During the test, turn off the supply to any automatic systems such as irrigation, pool top-up system etc. which could trigger false readings.
– Measurement methods vary in different areas.

Professional Leak Detection in Brisbane

If your water meter continues to move after completing the DIY leak test, there is a high chance that a hidden leak exists somewhere in the property.

Underground pipes, pipes under concrete slabs, and internal plumbing leaks can be difficult to locate without specialised equipment.

Max Leak Detection provides non-invasive leak detection services across Brisbane. Using professional acoustic equipment, we can accurately locate hidden leaks without unnecessary digging or damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What if my water meter keeps moving during the test?
A: If the water meter continues moving even though no water is being used, there is a high chance of a hidden leak somewhere on the property. In that case, professional leak detection may be required to locate the source.
Q: Can a hidden water leak stop by itself?
A: In most cases, no. A hidden water leak usually continues until the damaged section is repaired. Some leaks may appear to vary depending on pressure or usage, but they generally do not resolve permanently on their own.
Q: Will this DIY test tell me exactly where the leak is?
A: No. This test can indicate whether water is likely leaking, but it does not identify the exact leak location. Professional leak detection equipment is usually needed to pinpoint hidden leaks underground, under concrete, or inside walls.
Q: When should I call a leak detection specialist in Brisbane?
A: If your meter readings increase during the test, your water bills have risen unexpectedly, or you suspect a hidden leak but cannot find the source, it is a good time to book a professional leak detection inspection to locate the source.

This checklist is a general guide to help homeowners perform a basic leak check. It is not a definitive assessment, and all responsibility for interpreting the results rests with the homeowner. The service provider is not liable for any actions taken based on this test alone.

If a technician is called based on suspected leaks from this checklist, but no leak is present on-site, a call-out fee may apply. This policy helps prevent misuse of the “No leaks found – No charge” guarantee.

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