Early detection of a leak can minimize water loss at the property. If you suspect that there may be a leak somewhere in your plumbing, try these easy steps to identify that a leak exists.
To check the toilets for leaks:
a. Add a few drops of food coloring to the water in the tank. (Be cautious of the type food coloring used. Some may stain the bowl of your toilet)
b. Do not flush.
c. Wait one (1) hour to see if the colored water appears in the toilet bowl. If it does, there is a leak.
d. Repairing the leak is normally inexpensive and easy to do. Check with your local hardware store.
BEWARE: If you have to shake the handle to stop a running toilet, you may be losing water. There may be occasions where the toilet runs for greater periods of time than others. This type of problem will result in water loss.
NOTE:
THE CITY OF COLUMBIA ACCEPTS NO LIABILITY FOR STAINED TOILETS WHEN CHECKING FOR LEAKS.
If there appears to be no leaks inside your home, check for underground leaks:
a. Turn off water at the house cut off.
b. Open faucet to verify that the valve is working; the water flow should stop completely.
c. Go outside to the meter, if meter is still running, there is a leak somewhere in your plumbing between the meter and the house.
SUGGESTIONS ON SAVING WATER
1. Take a shower for 5 minutes or less.
2. Turn water off while brushing your teeth.
3. Carefully check all faucets after using them, ensuring they are turned off.
4. Monitor readings when lawn watering (take before and after readings of your meter)
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