How to Detect Leaks
A small leak, about the size of a pin head, dripping at one drop per second can
add up to 7 gallons of water a day. A large leak, the kind most often found in
toilets, can waste 200 gallons of water or more per day! Check out the following
when you suspect a leak:
Faucets
Check faucets in the bathroom and kitchen periodically.
Worn washers are most often the cause of dripping
faucets.
Sprinkler Systems
Broken sprinkler heads or damaged underground pipes
are common sources of sprinkler system leaks. Watch
your system run at least once per month to spot
problems early. Usually, leaks are easy to fix.
Do-it-yourself books with easy to follow instructions are available at libraries and home
improvement stores.
Toilets
Check toilets for leaks often. The most common causes of a leaking toilet are:
1) float device set too high, which causes water to run into the overflow tube
2) a warped or cracked flapper.
Inexpensive toilet leak kits are available at home improvement stores.
Don’t forget to use your water meter to detect leaks.
Use your water meter to determine if you have a leak:
•
Make sure no water is being used inside or outside (no washing machine filling, no
shower running, no watering outdoors, etc.).
•
Locate your water meter box. Carefully remove the cover and lift the top of the
meter.
•
Find the red Leak Indicator on the meter dial. If all of your water sources are off and
the Leak Indicator is rotating, you may have a leak. Leaks can waste thousands of
gallons of water in a just a few days. It pays to fix leaks promptly.