Heading out of town? First things first—shut off your inside water valve if you’ll be away for an extended period of time. It’s a simple step that can prevent big problems!
💧 Check Your Water Meter
Your water meter is the easiest way to spot a hidden leak.
✔ Make sure no water is being used inside or outside your home.
✔ Open the meter flap and shine a flashlight on the display. It will cycle through the reading and flow rate.
➡️ If the flow rate isn’t zero, you may have a leak.
Another option:
Take a meter reading, wait 1–2 hours (without using water), then check again.
➡️ If the number changes, there’s likely a leak.
Common Leak Culprits
🔧 Leaky Faucets – Leaking faucets are generally a result of a worn rubber washer. These are relatively easy to replace if you have the right tools. It does require shutting off the water under the sink or at the main shutoff valve and removing the handle. (Note: faucet handles are not shutoff valves.) Check your local home center or hardware store on how to repair faucet leaks.
🚽 Leaky Toilets – Toilet leaks can waste hundreds of gallons and often go unnoticed.
Try this easy test:
1️⃣ Remove the tank lid
2️⃣ Add a few drops of food colouring (or a dye tab)
3️⃣ Wait 30 minutes without flushing
➡️ If colour appears in the bowl, you’ve got a leak!
