What Might Be Causing Your Yard Leaks?

If your yard suddenly becomes waterlogged or soggy with no logical reason, it is likely that your plumbing has sprung a leak. Leaks that occur in the summer may cause standing water, sunken areas or even a patch of lush green grass that seems to grow faster than the surrounding lawn. Occasionally, you may even notice a jet or spray of water springing from the ground. Uncovering the source of your yard leak may be easier than you think.

Signs of Yard Leaks

Standing water and soggy soil are obvious signs of yard leaks, but there are more subtle signs to look for too.

• High water bill. This may be one of the first signs you notice as it may take a while for the soil to become saturated enough to show signs of waterlogging or soggy soil.
• Decrease in water pressure. You may notice the water pressure in your home isn’t as strong as it used to be as water constantly seeps out into your yard.
• Sounds of running water. If you have a leak in the yard, you may hear running water in your pipes inside your home as they work to supply water to the outside source.

What Causes Yard Leaks?

Yard leaks occur when the plumbing to outside sources breaks or springs a leak. The three most common sources are:

• Main Water Line Break
• Sewer Line Break
• Irrigation System Break

How Do You Find the Source?

To determine the source of your yard leak, you will need to do a little detective work. The first step is to determine the exact location. If water is visibly spraying or jetting from the source, note the location. Otherwise, follow these steps for locating the source.

Sewer Line Leaks: Sewer line leaks are often accompanied by the revealing stench of sewage.

1. Check the area for any unpleasant odors.
2. Add food coloring or dye to the toilet and flush the toilet.
3. Wait about half and hour and check the area for any traces of the dye.

Main Line Leaks: Leaks in the main water line are typically odorless. To determine if you have a leak in the main line, follow these steps:

1.  Turn off the water supply to your home.
2. Check the water meter for water flow. If the meter continues to show water flow, despite the fact that you have shut off the water supply, you have a leak in the main line.

Alternatively, contact a professional to help with water line repairs.

Irrigation Systems: Irrigation systems and sprinklers can also be the source of a yard leak. Follow these steps to find out if it is your problem.

1. Turn off the water supply to the irrigation system.
2. Observe the area and listen for the sound of running water.

How Do You Correct the Problem?

The best solution for correcting a yard leak is to call in a professional who has the experience and expertise to detect the source and correct the underlying issue. If you need help troubleshooting a yard leak or need a professional to correct the problem for you, contact us for help. Crawford Mechanical Services provides 24-hour emergency services.