Leak Detection Tips

Detecting and fixing leaks inside your home can help you conserve water. When it comes to fixing leaks, some small leaks may be simple enough to fix yourself. However, repairing larger leaks may require you to contact a professional.

Faucets

Faucet leaks can cause your monthly water bill to rise, but are usually easy and inexpensive to repair. Check your indoor and outdoor faucets often for leaks.

  • A slow drip from a faucet may waste up to 15-20 gallons a day.
  • A 1/16" faucet leak may waste 100 gallons a day.

Toilets

Toilet leaks can easily go undetected, but have a large impact on your water bill. A toilet leak can waste hundreds of gallons of water every day. Toilet leaks usually occur when the flushing mechanism is out of adjustment or when other parts are worn.

Most toilet leaks occur at the overflow pipe or the plunger-ball.

  • If the overflow valve is worn, the toilet will run like a leaky faucet. To stop the leak, the valve will need to be replaced.
  • To determine if the plunger-ball is leaking, put a few drops of food coloring into the clear water in the tank. If the coloring appears in the bowl, you probably have a plunger-ball leak. To stop the leak, the plunger-ball will need to be replaced.

Most toilet facilities have a shut-off valve below the tank. This shuts off the water to the toilet and allows for repairs.

Appliances

Appliances that use water to operate such as dishwashers, clothes washers, and refrigerators with ice makers/water dispensers should be checked regularly for leaks. Simply check underneath these appliances for water spots or stains to investigate potential leaks.

Pools and Spas

Pool and Spa leaks can be more difficult to detect, but can waste a lot of water. Here are some tips that may help you determine if your pool or spa is leaking.

  • If you have constant water-quality issues, this may be a sign of a leak. A leak prevents a constant and even water level and therefore can impact the chemistry of the water.
  • If the ground surrounding the pool/spa or equipment is soggy, this may indicate you have a leak.
  • If you have loose tiles or cracks surrounding the pool deck, you may have a leak.

Other Plumbing Leaks

If you hear water flowing, but no appliances are turned on, you may have a leak somewhere in your plumbing.