Identify & Fix Leaks

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 should 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 to 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. A leaky toilet can often be repaired by simply cleaning off the flapper valve. In some cases, you may have to replace the toilet’s flapper or flush valve. These parts are generally inexpensive 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 fuel costs Health & comfort Fixing leaks helps prevent mold growth and structural damage from hidden water sources. Environmental considerations By conserving water, we reduce the need for new infrastructure such as dams and water treatment plants. This helps avoid the negative impacts of new dams and saves the entire community money.

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 a huge amount of water. And they could be damaging your floors or ceilings too.
• To check for any leaks from your dishwasher, leave paper towels around the outside of the machine while it is in use. When the dishwasher stops running check the paper towels for signs of water. If you find water leaking you should 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.
• Check for leaks in your in the water hose running to and from your washing machine by putting paper towels on the floor and then checking them for wetness or looking for warping on the floor around your washing machine.
• Check the water pipes running to and from your water heater as 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, indicating that there is a leak. In this case, you may need to repair or replace your flapper or flush valve.
• 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. Click here to see video a demonstration and learn more information about how to fix a leaky toilet.
• Pipes: Fixing a leaky pipe can be a bit trickier. If it is a major leak, it is always best to call your local plumber. For a temporary fix, simply turn off the water, locate the leak, and wrap tightly with duct tape. If the pipe continues to leak, contact your local plumber.

• 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.