Home Water Leak Detection Checklist

Step 1: Determine if You're Wasting Water

• ✅ Review your winter water usage (January or February):
  • If a family of four uses more than 12,000 gallons/month, you likely have a serious leak.

Step 2: Use Your Water Meter

• ✅ Locate your water meter:
  • Pre-2016 homes: Usually in the basement near the water heater.
  • 2016 or newer: In a meter pit in front of your home.
  • Need help? Call the District Office at 719-495-8188.
• ✅ Conduct a meter test:
  • Record the meter reading.
  • Wait 2 hours without using any water.
  • Check the meter again. If it changed, you probably have a leak.

Step 3: Check for Toilet Leaks

• ✅ Add a drop of food coloring to the toilet tank.
• Wait 10 minutes.
• If color appears in the bowl, you have a leak.
• Flush immediately after the test to avoid staining.

Step 4: Inspect Faucets and Pipes

• ✅ Check faucet gaskets and pipe fittings.
• Look for moisture or water on the outside of pipes—this indicates a surface leak.

Source:  U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

🏠 When You Think Your Home Has Sprung a Leak

If your water bill suddenly spikes but your usage hasn’t changed, you may have a hidden leak. Here’s how to check:

🔍 Step-by-Step Leak Check

✅ 1. Look for Obvious Signs

• Dripping faucets
• Running toilets
• Damp spots near pipes or walls

✅ 2. Use Your Water Meter to Confirm

How to Read Your Meter:

1. Turn off all water (inside and outside), including:
   • Icemaker
   • Evaporative cooler
2. Record the meter reading.
3. Wait 30 minutes (no water use).
4. Record the new reading.
   • If the number has changed, you have a leak.

📍 Water Meter Location

• Homes built before 2016: Meter is usually in the basement near the water heater.
• Homes built in 2016 or later: Meter is in a meter pit in front of your home.

Need help? Call the District Office at 719-495-8188.