Some potential sources of leaks that owners need to be aware of…

If you begin to notice consistent, elevated monthly charges without any changes in household showering, dishwashing or laundry habits, there may be a cause for concern.

Below are some potential sources of leaks that homeowners need to be aware of to ensure they are not being unnecessarily charged for excessive water usage within their homes.

• Toilet Leak(s). Regardless of how nominal, a leaking toilet can significantly increase your water bill on a monthly basis. In fact, a continuously filling toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water in a day! Check for toilet leaks by listening for running water after a toilet is done flushing and filling. To visibly check for small leaks, place food coloring into the water tank and if the coloring appears in your toilet water, you have a leak that requires attention.

• Dripping Faucets. Even a minor faucet leak can waste up to three gallons of water per day, which over time, can add up. Older sinks and faucets that have leaks will need to have their internal components changed if they start showing signs of failure. These include “cam and packing” components, adjusting rings, rubber valves, ball assemblies and other related parts.

• Underground Leaks. Water leaks that originate before the curbside meter box are the responsibility of the homeowner. Underground pipes that are aged or damaged can be very costly and leak a significant amount of water in a short period of time. Symptoms of underground leaks include unusual wet patches on a lawn, weak water pressure, sputtering water flows (caused by air pockets), and sections of a lawn that are greener than normal.

• Faulty Water Meter. A less common, but possible cause of a high water bill could be the result of a faulty water meter. To learn more about this issue, as well as other helpful information regarding your water bill

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Tags: Building Maintenance, Plumbing Articles