Newer homes, different weak points
Amerige Heights in west Fullerton is a planned community of comparatively recent homes, far newer than the postwar tracts elsewhere in the city. Pinhole leaks from decades-old copper are less of a concern in houses of this age. Instead, hidden leaks in newer homes more often come from fittings, connections, fixtures, appliance lines and irrigation.
Newer homes may use copper or plastic piping such as PEX, and supply lines may run overhead through the attic or in walls rather than under the slab. Check your own home's documents or ask a plumber what was installed.
Common hidden leak sources in newer homes
| Source | Typical clue |
|---|---|
| Fittings and crimp connections | Damp drywall near a fixture or in a ceiling |
| Upstairs bathrooms and laundry | Ceiling stains below |
| Refrigerator and ice maker lines | Damp flooring near the kitchen |
| Washing machine hoses | Water at the base of the laundry wall |
| Toilet flappers and fill valves | Meter creep, tank refilling |
| Irrigation valves and drip lines | Soggy areas, high summer bills |
Where to start
- Meter test.Everything off, including irrigation and the ice maker.
- Toilets and appliances.Dye-test toilets and inspect appliance supply hoses.
- Irrigation.Close the irrigation supply and recheck the meter.
- Upstairs check.In two-story homes, look at ceilings below bathrooms and the laundry.
Older tract homes versus newer homes
Older Fullerton tract homes
- Original copper or galvanized pipe
- Supply lines often under the slab
- Pinhole and corrosion leaks common
Newer homes
- Newer copper or plastic piping
- Lines often routed overhead or in walls
- Leaks more often at fittings, fixtures and appliances
Contacts
- City of Fullerton water utility for meter and bill questions.
- Your homeowners association, if one applies, for shared landscaping or common areas.
- SoCalGas for gas service; leave and call 911 or SoCalGas from outside if you smell gas.
- A licensed plumber, checked at cslb.ca.gov.
Common questions
Can a newer home have a slab leak?
It is possible if any lines run under the slab, but in newer homes leaks at fittings, fixtures and appliances are often more likely.
Who handles leaks in common area landscaping?
If you have an association, ask it. Irrigation in shared areas may not be your responsibility.
Is PEX pipe prone to leaks?
Any piping can leak at connections if installed or damaged improperly. Ask a plumber to look at the specific fittings in your home.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.