Leaks and Leak Detection

A little leak can account for large amount of lost water. A pinhole size leak can mean a loss of gallons in three months, and is so hard to find. The best way to determine if you have a leak is to perform an audit.

A water audit is most accurate in winter months when there isn't outdoor water use.

First analyze your water bill and figure out how much water your family is using on a monthly and daily basis. Now you can figure out how much water you are using per day per person by dividing the number of people in your family into the amount of water you're using daily. Note: convert water bill from cubic feet to gallons by multiplying cubic feet figure by 7.48.

Locate your water meter and make note of the meter reading. Turn off all the fixtures in and around your home and don't use any water for an hour. Then go back and check the reading on the meter, if it has changed, you have a leak or leaks!!

Repair any leaks, retro-fit with water saving devices, insulate pipes and water heater, and adjust water use.

Check water use for several months after your audit, repairs, retro-fits, and adjustments to compare per person per day use. Calculate the per gallon cost of water, multiply gallons saved times your per gallon charge and figure the dollar savings.

Water Conservation City of Yachats