Checking for Leaks

Leaks & Helpful Tips

If you have a higher than average water bill, you may have a leak. Leaks can occur in toilets, pipes, faucets, water heaters, ice machines, dishwashers, washing machines, and irrigation systems. The steps below can help you determine if you have a leak.

Turn off water
Make sure all faucets and water-using appliances are not running. Turn off sprinkler systems and hoses.

Locate your meter
Your water meter should be located in front of your house inside a concrete or plastic meter box. Look for it behind your sidewalk or even on a side street if you live on a corner. The box may be hidden by overgrown vegetation. Lift the lid carefully as there may be wires attached that can be damaged.

Read your meter
There are a couple of types of meters we use. There are digital meters and analog rotating meters (click HERE to determine the type you have and how to read the meter).

The digital meter has a circle under the numbers that will show a plus (+) sign if there is water running through it. It might take up to 15 minutes for the water to settle for an accurate read. Wait this time between turning off the water and reading the meter. The + sign indicates you might have a leak.

The analog meter has a tiny little blue or red wheel on the face. If that wheel is moving while the water is off at the house, it indicates you might have a leak.

Where to look for leaks

Toilet: put a few drops of food coloring in the tank and wait for about 10 minutes. If the color appears in the bowl, you have a leak.

Showerheads and faucets: Even a very small drip can waste hundreds of gallons a day. Replace worn washers.

Look for any wet or soft spots in your yard that may indicate an underground leak.