Most slab leaks in older Fullerton homes are found late, after a bill spikes or a floor warms. A light routine changes that. None of these checks takes more than a few minutes, and most need no tools beyond a flashlight and your phone camera.
Use the calendar as a starting point and shift months to suit your household. The important part is doing the meter test regularly.
The year at a glance
- January
- Meter test with everything off. Compare the latest bill with last January.
- February
- Find and gently exercise the main shutoff and the water heater cold inlet.
- March
- Before irrigation season, check the irrigation valve and look for wet spots along the foundation.
- April
- Meter test. Run the toilet food coloring test on every toilet.
- May
- Look at exposed pipe under sinks and at the water heater for green or white crust and drips.
- June
- Check the water heater area: strapping in place, relief valve discharge pipe dry, no puddles.
- July
- Meter test. Walk hallways and the kitchen barefoot in the morning for warm spots.
- August
- Compare summer bills with last year, allowing for irrigation.
- September
- Clean faucet aerators and note how much mineral scale builds up.
- October
- Meter test. Check baseboards and carpet edges in rooms near the water heater.
- November
- Ask a plumber at your next visit to measure water pressure if you never have.
- December
- Update your shutoff map and file this year's bills and any repair records.
The quarterly meter test, short version
- Everything off, including irrigation and ice maker.
- Watch the leak indicator for several minutes.
- Photograph the reading.
- If it moves, follow the full meter test worksheet.
What a finding means
| Finding | Next step |
|---|---|
| Meter indicator moving | Run the full meter test worksheet. |
| Stuck shutoff valve | Ask a plumber to replace it before an emergency. |
| Green crust or drip on exposed copper | Have it checked; it may also tell you about pipe condition elsewhere. |
| Water heater not strapped | California requires seismic strapping; have it addressed. |
| Bill rising year over year with no change in use | Repeat the meter test and check irrigation. |
Why this matters in Fullerton
- Common housing
- 1950s to 1970s slab-on-grade homes
- Typical supply pipe
- Copper, sometimes galvanized
- Water
- Hard; city utility blend of groundwater and imported water
- Best early warning
- Regular meter tests
Common questions
How often should I do a meter test?
Quarterly is a simple routine. Do one any time the bill jumps or you notice a warm or damp floor.
Can I prevent a slab leak?
Not entirely, but reasonable water pressure and early detection limit damage. Ask a plumber whether your pressure is in a normal range.
Is exercising valves risky?
Turn gently and never force a stiff valve. If one will not move, leave it and have a plumber look.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.