How to Check for Leaks

New types of water meters have a leak indicator on the face of the dial. It is a triangular or diamond shaped indicator that revolves 354 times for every gallon of water that passes through the meter. You may see what looks like water on the face of the dial. It is oil that prevents corrosion and increases the life of the dial mechanism. It does not enter the water supply and does not affect the quality of the water delivered to the customer.

To check for leaks, look at the indicator when no one is drawing water. It should not be moving. If it is moving, check every plumbing fixture at the property: toilets, sinks, outside sprinklers, washer, hot water heaters, etc. Shut off the valves that supply each fixture, one by one, and check the indicator after each shutoff. When closing a valve stops the indicator from moving, you have found the location of a leak. But remember, there may by more than one leak!

Toilet Leaks and Fixes
As much as 200 gallons of water per day can be wasted by a silent toilet leak. You can check for leaks by putting a few drops of food coloring in the toilet tank. Without flushing, wait 30-60 minutes. If the color appears in the bowl, you have a toilet leak. Toilet leak repairs should be made immediately.

Check the toilet overflow valve for the correct water level in the tank by removing the tank lid and verifying that the water level is approximately one inch below the overflow valve. Always make sure that the water in the tank is not running into the overflow tube. Normally, the arm of the ball float can be adjusted in order to bring the water level to the desired height. Check the positioning of the refill tube in relation to the overflow tube to ensure that there is no siphoning effect when the tank is refilling.

Click here for more information on Toilet Leaks.