Water Leak Information

Research shows that most unusually high water bills are caused by undetected leaks. A dripping faucet or hidden leak can account for a larger water loss than you may realize. While some leaks are easy to see (dripping faucets or running toilets) some leaks are not.

If your home is built on a crawl space, much of your water system is hidden from view. Water can also be leaking under a floor or behind a wall. Leaks in walls or a toilet that leaks or runs constantly wastes a tremendous amount of water and can cost you hundreds of dollars each billing cycle.

Leaks in your water systems can easily be detected. If either of the two red dials on the face of your meter is moving when water is not being used, you have a leak. A change in readings from before and after a period of two to eight hours when water is not being used also indicates a leak.

Dripping faucets can often be fixed by a simple washer replacement, a low-cost way of saving big dollars. A toilet that leaks or runs constantly wastes a tremendous amount of water. This can be detected by a hissing sound, either constant or immediately after flushing. It is easily remedied by replacing worn parts in the flushing mechanism.

We find that by far, most excessive water bills are caused by undetected leaks. The table below shows potential water waste. Remember these figures are in addition to actual use.

Estimated costs of Having a Leak

The table below shows potential water waste. Remember these figures are in addition to actual use set in terms of water wasted and dollar increase.

Leak SizeGallons WastedHCFT / UnitsWater Only CostWater & Sewer Cost
1/32 inches15,0002.04$51$102.70
1/16 inches55,0007.30$186.15$374.86
1/8 inches220,00029.30$747.15$1,504.56
1/4 inches750,000100$2,550$5,135

Based on a quarterly billing cycle (approximately 90 days, 40 pounds of pressure, and current rates).

Low-Cost Ways to Reduce Your Water Bill

  • Shower instead of taking baths
  • Using an automatic dishwasher uses approximately 9 to 12 gallons of water while washing your dishes by hand uses as much as 20 gallons
  • Water your lawn only when needed
  • Check to make sure that your outside faucets are turned off and not dripping
  • Replace washers on dripping faucets (inside and outside your home)
  • Check to see if you have a leak
  • If your toilet is running, either constantly or immediately after flushing, replace worn parts in the flushing mechanism