Leaks Uncovered

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Even at the most water efficient homes, leaks can be frequent visitors. Be a leak detective this spring and find leaks hiding in and around your home.

Leaks’ not-so-secret hiding places

Toilets
Check for leaks by placing a few drops of food coloring or dropping dye tablets (available at ebmud.com) into the toilet tank, then wait 15 minutes. If a worn flapper is causing a leak, colored water will appear in the bowl. When replacing the flapper, make sure to choose the right brand for your toilet.

Shower
Are you lathering with only a trickle of water from the showerhead while your feet get soaked? The shower diverter valve may be at fault. The fix? Replace the spout.

Water heater
A puddle of water around the bottom of the tank may indicate a leak. If the tank wall is corroding, it’s likely time to get a new energy-saving model. Also check the pressure release valve for failure (it’s the copper pipe on the side of the water heater). If it is warm or hot to the touch, it could be a pricey leak, but an easy fix.

Faucets
Fix this leak by replacing worn washers or tightening the faucet fixture.

House and irrigation lines
Check for overly green or soggy spots between the meter and the house valve or wet spots elsewhere that may indicate an irrigation leak. Listen for sprinkler and drip systems that generate hissing sounds while not irrigating.

Visit ebmud.com/leaks to read EBMUD’s homeowners guide. You’ll learn how to fix common leaks and determine if the source of the leak is indoors or outside.