Leak detection tips

Leaking Faucet: Inside of faucet handles are mechanisms called cartridges. These regulate the water supply line as it flows out of the spout. Cartridges include washers or “O-rings” that create a seal to prevent dripping. Over time, these can wear out & will need to be replaced. If replacing the washer does not fix the problem, try replacing the cartridge with a faucet repair kit. For single-handle bathroom sinks, you’ll likely need to replace the ball valve assembly instead. 

Leaking Shower Head: The source of leaking shower heads and bathtub spouts is similar to faucets. The water flow is regulated by a cartridge behind the faucet handle(s) on the wall. Check the washers, O-rings other internal components for rust & excessive wear, replace the bathtub cartridge if needed. 

 Hot Water Tanks: Check the Pressure Relief Valve on the hot water tank. Sometimes these valves are plumbed directly into a drain and may be leaking without your knowledge. If you cannot remove the drainpipe to check for a leak, listen for a hissing sound. This could be an indication of a leak.  

Water Softeners: These can cause abnormal jumps in water usage.  Most water softeners are set to “cycle” at certain intervals set by you or your water softener specialist.  In some cases, these settings can be disrupted/changed, causing your water softener to cycle more often.  Thus using more water than normal.  Check your water softener panel to see how often it is cycling and consult your softener specialist for recommended settings.

Running Toilet: The most common failure point on a toilet is the flapper. It’s the rubber valve seal that holds water in the tank & releases water into the bowl after each flush. Failing flappers can often leak silently, causing you to lose thousands of gallons of water a year before you even notice an issue. We recommend proactively replacing your toilet flapper every 5 years. While other types of leaks in the home are possible, these are the most common. If your in-ground irrigation system is leaking or if you have a leaking pipe, contact a licensed plumber to identify and fix the problem.