Did you know that leaks in our homes are more common than we might realize? According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, about 10 percent of homes have leaks that can waste a shocking amount of water—enough to fill 1,440 glasses every day! Not only do leaks waste water, but they can also damage our homes and gardens. It's essential to look for leaks and fix them promptly.
Inside your home
Leaking toilet: A leaking toilet is the most common type of leak found indoors and can waste 200 gallons of water daily. If you can hear your toilet running constantly, chances are you have a leak. A simple test involves adding food coloring to the tank and checking the bowl after 15 minutes. If there's colored water, you've got a leak. Often, a worn-out toilet flapper is the culprit, which can easily be replaced with a new one from a home improvement store.
Swing by the Utility Exploration Center, 1501 Pleasant Grove Blvd, this week to pick up a dye strip to test your toilet and check for leaks!
Dripping faucets and showerheads: Dripping faucets and showerheads might seem like minor issues, but they can waste a surprising amount of water. A faucet leaking one drip per second can waste nearly 58 gallons per week, and a showerhead leaking ten drips per minute can waste nearly 10 gallons per week. Worn-out washers or loose connections are usually to blame. Turning off the water and replacing worn washers, as well as ensuring tight connections, can solve the problem.
In your Garden
Sprinkler system: Outdoor leaks can be sneaky, but they're just as essential to fix. A small leak in your sprinkler system can waste about 6,300 gallons of water monthly. Keep an eye out for wet or soft spots in your lawn or garden, which could indicate a broken pipe or loose connection. Regularly checking your sprinklers and tightening connections can help prevent significant water waste.
Additional tips for dealing with leaks
- Always turn of the water when you find a leak.
- Look for the WaterSense label when replacing fixtures. These products are 20 percent more efficient.
- If you can't find a leak, contact us for a free Water Wise House Call.
- When in doubt, it's best to hire a professional plumber.
- Fore more resources and "how-to" videos, visit BeWaterSmart.info.
Contact us if you have questions. Our water efficiency team can assist. Visit
Roseville.ca.us/savewater for other ways to learn more about water use efficiency.