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Leak Detection
HOW TO IDENTIFY A LEAK
Is it INDOORS or OUTDOORS?
FIND & READ YOUR WATER METER
Just like a car odometer measures miles, the meter tracks how much water you use. It can assist you in finding plumbing leaks. Your water meter dials should be motionless if water is not actively being used on the property.
You can track your meter reads daily or weekly to monitor your water use. Perform your own leak check with the SMWD DIY Leak Check Guide!
OR
INSTALL A FLOW MONITOR DEVICE
Another way to track your home water use in real-time is by installing a Flow Monitoring Device. The device reports your home's water use directly to you. Leak alerts and water use charts can assist prevent high bills and keep you in charge of your water use. Rebates are available for qualifying models. FIND REBATES HERE!
INSPECT first and FIX next with this full home checklist!
TOILETS – The #1 Cause of Indoor Leaks |
FULL RESIDENTIAL LEAK CHECKLIST (click here)
A leaking toilet can be silent and will not show any signs of water on the floor. This is water running directly do
wn the drain into the sewer system.
CHECK YOUR TOILETS WITH A DYE TEST:
Yes! A running toilet is a leak and can waste hundreds of gallons per day.
Check your mail in the month of March for FREE dye test strips to test your toilets!
VIDEO: How to check your toilet with dye strips?
NEXT STEPS:
After you perform the dye test and it appears that you do have a leak. Try these next steps:
✔ Check to see if the toilet flapper falls down and seals completely. Rubber flappers degrade over time. The flapper may be in need of replacement or a simple cleaning.
✔ If you notice that water is flowing into the overflow tube, you have an overflow leak. Adjust/lower the fill valve (or float) in order to lower the water line within the tank. The water line should always sit below the top entrance of the overflow tube.
✔ Make any necessary adjustments/repairs to the flapper or fill valve.
✔ If you still need help, try contacting the TOILET REPAIR PROS (CLICK HERE). It's free!
HELPFUL VIDEOS:
Do I have a toilet leak?
What is a toilet leak?
SPRINKLER SYSTEM – The #1 Cause of Outdoor Leaks |
The average single family residence uses over 50% of water outdoors in the landscape.
Full Home Leak Checklist (click here)
- Check your sprinklers while they are running
- Check irrigation control valves and hose bibbs for constant drips
- Check Pool & Spa auto-fill valves and filter pumps for constant running
- Contact Us: SMWD Water Efficiency Specialists can help you to check your sprinkler timer and irrigation system.
CHECK SPRINKLERS OFTEN; THIS COULD BE YOUR PROPERTY!
* Warning: High water pressure (over 65 PSI) can strain irrigation system parts. Consider installing pressure regulation on outdoor lines to prevent breaks.
HELPFUL VIDEOS:
How to check for sprinkler leaks?
How to detect if you have a pool leak?
Spotlight on the pressure regulating valve!
A Pressure Regulating Valve (PRV) is a plumbing device installed on the intake pipe between the street and your front yard hose bib. It is used to moderate high water pressure for optimal home appliance, pipe, and fixture performance, while significantly reducing the likelihood of leaks developing.
A failed PRV allows water entering your home to exceed the recommended pressure for household plumbing devices and appliances. If approved for the program, a qualified technician will test and adjust your water pressure or, if necessary, replace a failed PRV.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS |
- What is wrong with my toilet?
- What size toilet flapper do I have?
- How do I replace a toilet fill valve?
- How do I fix a leaky or dripping double handled faucet?
- How do I replace a faucet aerator?
- How do I fix a leaky bathtub faucet?
- What is a water pressure regulator?
- Where is the pressure regulator located?
- How do I adjust my pressure regulator?
- How do I reset/program my sprinkler timer (outdoor watering)?
- Pool / Spa DIY Leak Check
Fun Family Activities for All Ages (CLICK HERE)
DIY Leak Check
Avoid Surprises on Your Bill
This interactive guide will step you through how to check your home for leaks.
Download a "paper" guide; click the link below.