The heavy rain from spring has caused issues for many homes in Dallas, leading to excess water and soggy yards. However, if a specific area of your yard appears excessively wet, you might question whether this is a result of pipe.
Although we can not influence the weather, we can assist you in managing any surplus water in your yard resulting from plumbing leaks. Our experienced technician, Sean, is available to provide expert advice on detecting leaks in your yard, ensuring that your yard plumbing issues are resolved correctly on the initial attempt.
Before investigating further, it’s essential to determine whether the excess water in your yard is caused by a leak or simply a result of heavy rainfall. Check the recent weather forecast to see if there have been any significant precipitation events. If you’re unfamiliar with the yard’s drainage patterns, consider consulting with a neighbor who may be able to provide insight. Keep in mind that some yards are prone to poor drainage, holding onto rainwater for an extended period. Additionally, homes built on land with a high water table may experience groundwater seepage, even during dry spells.
Have a clearer understanding of your yard and still suspect a plumbing issue, you can utilize your water meter to help identify whether the problem is indeed related to your plumbing system.
Locate the “meter box” near the street curb, typically identified by a black cover and a “meter” label. To access the meter, lift the cover, which may open easily you’ll need a “water meter key,” a widely available tool that can be purchased at a local hardware store. This key is designed to fit into a recessed area on the cover and, when turned counterclockwise and pulled up, will release the lock, allowing you to open the lid and inspect the meter.
Upon entering, look for a small red triangle or a silver dial on the meter, which will rotate if there’s an active water leak. If the dial is moving, it indicates that water is being consumed within the house or escaping into the ground. This is a strong indication that the water accumulation in your yard is likely caused by a leak, rather than residual rainwater. However, further confirmation is still needed.
In certain locations, there are modern water meters that are digital rather than analog, featuring an LCD screen displaying various numbers. When you lift the cover, the screen shows different information, including the flow rate in gallons per minute (0.00 indicates no water flow, while any value above zero signifies water passing through the meter.
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After verifying that water is entering the system via the water meter, it’s important to inspect all the plumbing fixtures in the house to ensure none of them are in use. Be sure to also examine the outdoor faucets. A leaking faucet can lead to the water meter registering usage. Pay close attention to any hissing sounds coming from the toilets. A running toilet can go unnoticed but will still consume water.
After confirming that there are no leaks above the ground, the next step the leak is within the irrigation system or the “potable water” (plumbing) system.
How do I determine the source of the water leak?
To identify the source of the water leak, start by finding the sprinkler system control box, usually situated near the water meter and recognizable by its green lid. Inside this box, you’ll find the “double check valve” that regulates your sprinkler system. Look for the two ball valves, one on each side of the valve, which have small lever handles. These valves allow you to shut off the water supply to the irrigation system, effectively isolating it to help you pinpoint the leak.
Ensure that the meter is still in motion or rotating before shutting off the ball valve on the double-check. If the meter ceases moving, it indicates that the leak is within the sprinkler system. In that case, it is advisable to contact a professional sprinkler technician for assistance.
This suggests that the damp area in your yard may be due to a plumbing leak. When the main water line is identified as the source of the leak, it is advisable to seek help from a skilled plumber in Frisco to address the plumbing leak issue.
Recall the concept of “potable water” mentioned earlier. In simple terms, this refers to water that is safe for consumption. Various plumbing regulations are implemented to safeguard this water from being contaminated. If a repair is carried out improperly, it jeopardizes not just the safety of the water in your home but also that of others linked to the same water source. Therefore, it is crucial to engage a certified plumber for such repairs.