How to Find a Water Leak

     You can  easily determine if you have a leak by checking your water meter.  Start by turning off all the fixtures and making sure nobody is using the water.  Note the meter reading on the dial initially and then again after an hour or more.  If there is a change in the reading you have a leak.  If your meter has a red low flow indicator (arrow-shape), you can quickly identify a leak by just checking to see if it is rotating when you know the water is turned off.

     If you determine there is a leak, check all the faucets, outside spigots and toilets.  Here are some tips for your search.

  Faucets or showerheads may have small drips which can result in hundreds of gallons of water being wasted each day.  Check each fixture to see if it is dripping.  Most faucet or showerhead leaks are due to worn washers which can easily be replaced.

     Toilet leaks are often the cause of wasted water.  To check your toilet for
leaks, simply remove the tank lid and drop in either leak detection tablets or several drops of food coloring.  Wait 10 minutes.  If the colored water appears in the bowl, you have a leak.  If you identify a leak in the toilet you should find out what components are defective and see that they are repaired as soon as possible.  You can get toilet repair and replacement kits at the local hardware store or contact your plumber for assistance.