Identify & Fix Leaks

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Quick Facts Affordability Cost Savings CO2 Reduction		A leaky faucet can waste 11,350 litres (2,500 gallons) or more every year. If the leak is in a hot water pipe or faucet, the energy savings will almost certainly easily pay for fixing the leak. A leaky toilet can waste hundreds of litres of water per day. Finding and fixing these leaks is essential for home water savings. Affordability Worn-out washers are the main cause of leaks in faucets and showerheads and a new one generally costs about 25 cents. Simply cleaning off the flapper valve can often repair a leaky toilet. In some cases, you may have to replace the toilet's flapper or flush valve. These parts are generally inexpensive, easy to replace, and can be found in most hardware stores. Cost savings Fixing a hot water leak in your faucet can save up to $33 per year in energy costs. Health & comfort Fixing leaks helps prevent mold growth and structural damage from hidden water sources. It will also stop the running toilet sound, or constant drip noise. Environmental considerations Conserving water protects this valuable resource and reduces the need for new water treatment plants and other infrastructure.

What you need to know

Identify your leaks

• A leaky faucet is pretty obvious. The hidden leaks in the toilet, under the sink or behind a washing machine are harder to identify and can waste vast amounts of water. Leaks could be damaging your floors, walls, and ceilings too.
• To check your dishwasher for leaks, leave dishtowels around the outside of the machine while it is in use. When the dishwasher stops running check the towels for signs of water. If you find water leaking have your machine serviced immediately.
• Inspect pipes under your sink and tubs. Pipes can become clogged and cause leaks and cause serious damage to your home. To avoid clogging your pipes, do not put grease or food down your drains. Keep hair and other dirt out of your tub drain. You can get a drain snake at any hardware store to clear out blocked drains, use a drain screen to keep hair and other debris from going into your shower drain.
• Check for leaks in the washing machine hoses by putting dishtowels on the floor and checking them for wetness, or look for warping on the floor around your washing machine.
• Check the water pipes running to and from your water heater. Older units can rust and develop leaks.
• Do not rely on your garden hose shut off valve to restrict water flow. Always turn water off at the exterior faucet.
• To identify whether you have a leak in your toilet, place a few drops of food coloring into the tank. Wait about half and hour and if you see food coloring in the toilet bowl, you have a leak. Start by repairing or replacing your flapper or flush valve. That might be all it needs.
• Know where your master water shut off valve is.

Fixing your leaks

• Faucets: Fixing a leaky faucet is fairly simple. Most faucets work the same way. Watch this video for a quick demonstration of how to fix a leaky faucet.
• Toilets: Leaks in toilets can occur in several different places. The most common leaks occur at the fill valve or at the flush valve. Watch a video demonstration and learn more about how to fix a leaky toilet.
• Pipes: Fixing a leaky pipe can be a bit trickier. If it is a major leak, it's best to call your plumber. For a temporary fix, simply turn off the water, locate the leak, and wrap tightly with duct tape.
• If you are renting your unit, notify your landlord of any leaks as soon as they are identified. Under the B.C. Residential Tenancy Act, renters are not required to make repairs for reasonable wear and tear.

FAQ

My toilet makes a hissing sound sometimes for a long time after I flush. Does that mean it has a leak?
Almost certainly, yes. The sound is water running from your tank into the bowl. Usually this is caused by a sticking flapper or flush valve. They are inexpensive to buy at a hardware store and quite easy to install.