Detecting Water Leaks
It is important to watch your water usage and make sure that water is not slipping away due to undetected leaks in your system. Leaks often occur when component parts are worn and need replacing or adjusting.
Leaking Toilets
High volume water leaks often come from toilets. They are hard to detect and are usually caused by worn or misaligned parts. A toilet that continues to run after flushing could be wasting 20-40 litres per hour - that's 175,000 to 350,000 litres (175 to 350 cubic metres) per year. That's enough water to fill a swimming pool. Leaks can cost up to several hundreds of dollars per month!
- Listen for Leaks
- Take the Dye Test
If you hear the sound of running water, your toilet is leaking.Carefully remove the toilet tank lid. Place a dye tablet or some food colouring in the tank. After 15 minutes, check the water in your toilet bowl. If the water is coloured, you've got a leak. Toilet repairs may require the assistance of a plumber.
Leaking Pipes
A leaking service line or pipe in your home can add up to a significant amount of water waste. A small hole in a pipe (1.5mm) has known to waste a substantial amount of water in a two month period. Continual leakage from a hole this size could cost you from several hundred dollars to thousands of dollars depending on the diameter of the pipe, which is why we encourage customers to locate and repair water leaks immediately.
- Check all Faucets and Pipes Periodically
Watch for drips, and quickly replace faulty parts. A leaking faucet can waste as much drinking water in a single day as the amount required to sustain one person for an entire week.
Leaking Irrigation Systems
Whether you use an in-ground sprinkler system or a single oscillating head, check it carefully for leaks. The average garden hose delivers 27 litres of water a minute, so a split in the hose or a poor coupling could be wasting large amounts of water. Make sure the outdoor faucet is turned off after each use, even small drips add up to big waste. A leak in your in-ground sprinkler system is less noticeable than one in a hose. If you think your in-ground sprinkler system may have a leak, check for wet patches in your lawn that do not dry.
Note: Shutting off a sprinkler system is not considered an acceptable solution. The leak should be repaired.
Electronic Water Leak Sensor
Electronic sensory devices can be purchased and placed under major household appliances, such as dishwashers and washing machines, to alert you as soon as water starts to collect underneath. This can also help protect your home against costly water damage and dangerous toxic mold by catching water leaks early. Visit your local hardware store for more information.
Check your Water Meter
To check your water meter, first turn off every appliance, facet, or hose connected to your house, then check if the dial on your meter is registering any water consumption. If your meter is continuing to record consumption, you may have a leak.
Leak Adjustments
For more information on leak adjustments and how to apply for it, please contact the Municipal Office. To view the District of Tofino Utility Bill Adjustment Policy, click here.
Contact Us
Municipal Office
(T) 250-725-3229
(F) 250-725-3775
(E) office@tofino.ca