Had a notice about high water use? Find out common causes and quick fixes to help resolve the issue.
Getting a letter from the water board about high water usage or a suspected leak can be alarming. But don’t worry—it’s a common issue, and in many cases, the cause can be identified and resolved fairly easily. Here’s a guide to help you understand why you might have received the letter and what you can do to address it.
Toilet Leak (Running Toilet) One of the most frequent culprits behind unexpected water usage is a toilet leak, often due to a “running” or “passing” toilet. This happens when water continuously escapes from the cistern into the bowl, causing the toilet to refill over and over. Not only is this a waste of water, but it can also lead to a significantly higher water bill.
How to Check for a Running Toilet:
Listen for any hissing sounds
coming from your toilet when it’s not in use—this could indicate a slow, continuous leak.
Conduct a simple dye test
Add a few drops of food coloring or a dye tablet to the cistern, wait about 10-15 minutes, and check the bowl. If color has seeped into the bowl, you have a leak.
Inspect the flush valve
A worn-out flush-valve seal is often the cause of the problem. Replacing it can be a straightforward fix and may solve the issue right away.
Hidden Leak Under the Property If you’ve checked your toilet and confirmed it’s not the source, there could be a hidden leak elsewhere. These types of leaks are often more challenging to locate, especially if they’re under your home or in the main supply line.
Signs of a Hidden Leak:
Wet patches
or pooling water on your property, especially near the water line entry point.
Low water pressure
could suggest water is escaping somewhere along the line.
Continuous meter reading changes
If you turn off all water fixtures in your home and your meter still moves, there may be a hidden leak.
Confirm the Issue Check for common culprits like a running toilet first. If you’re unable to find the source, it may be time to consult a professional plumber who can help you inspect for hidden leaks.
Contact Your Supplier Many water boards offer support and guidance if you’re facing a potential leak. They may provide information on leak detection, resources to help with repairs, or even offer an adjustment on your bill if it turns out to be an unexpected leak.
Consider Professional Leak Detection If the leak is underground or challenging to locate, professional leak detection services can help pinpoint the issue. Plumbers use specialized equipment like listening devices and thermal cameras to locate leaks without causing unnecessary disruption to your property.
Make Necessary Repairs Once the source of the leak is confirmed, it’s crucial to fix it quickly to prevent further water waste and avoid another high bill. Whether it’s a simple flush valve or seal replacement or a more extensive repair to an underground cold water supply, addressing the issue promptly can save you money and prevent water damage.
To avoid similar issues in the future, consider these preventive steps:
Inspect your plumbing fixtures regularly
- especially toilets, to ensure they aren’t running unnecessarily.
Monitor your water usage
and compare it with previous months to catch any unusual spikes early.
Install water-saving devices
like low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators to reduce overall usage.
Receiving a letter from the water board can be a bit unsettling, but by identifying the cause and taking swift action, you can resolve the issue and avoid high water bills in the future.
