Leak Detection
Leaks are often undetectable on the surface and can result in high water use and costly water bills. Following the steps below, you can easily confirm if there is a leak on your property and isolate the source. Checking regularly for leaks can save both water and money!
- Step One: Do You Have a Leak?
- Step Two: Is the Leak Inside or Outside?
- Step Three: What Is the Source?
- Make sure no water is being used inside or outside of your home.
- Locate your water meter. It is most likely in a green box in your front yard.
- Write down the meter reading.
- Wait 30 minutes and do not use any water.
- Check the meter reading. If the number has changed, you have a leak.
- Your meter may also have a small triangle or dial for detecting leaks. If this is moving, you have a leak.
- Turn off your master shutoff valve. It is most often located near an outdoor faucet or may be inside your garage.
- Write down the meter reading.
- Wait 30 minutes and do not use any water.
- Check the meter reading. If the number has changed, the leak is outside. If the number has not changed, the leak is likely inside your home.
If you’ve determined the leak is indoors:
- Turn on your master shutoff valve and turn off the water supply valves to toilets, faucets, and appliances.
- Write down the meter reading.
- Wait 30 minutes and do not use any water.
- Check the meter reading. If the number has not changed, the leak is in one of those services.
- Turn on each service one at a time and check the meter unless you and the problem.
If you’ve determined the leak is outdoors:
- Turn off your master shutoff valve and your main irrigation system valve.
- Write down the meter reading.
- Wait 30 minutes and do not use any water.
- Check the meter reading. If the number has changed, you have a leak in the service line (the line between your meter and the master valve). If the number has not changed, the leak is in your irrigation system.