City of Abbotsofrd

High Water Bills

If you are experiencing high water bills you may want to check around the household for possible leaks. To check the water meter for movement you will need to locate the meter in your house. The meter is usually located in the basement. Visually examine the area around the meter to ensure your safety. Be careful not to touch any wires connected to the meter. The little triangle on the face of the meter is a low flow indicator. It will rotate with even a very low flow through the meter. To check for leaks, turn off all known water uses inside and outside the house. If you have an automatic icemaker, make sure it is not operating. When all water is turned off, the low flow indicator should not move.

If the low flow indicator is moving, there is water flowing somewhere on your property. This could be a toilet leak, a dripping faucet, or any number of problems. These are more than just a nuisance. They waste water and cost you money. Research shows that a leaky toilet can waste 200 gallons of water a day.

The City of Abbotsford knows that you are concerned about the cost of your utility bill as well as water conservation, and one of the best things you can do is find and fix any household leaks you may have.

Start with the toilet

Toilets are the most common source of leaks.

First: Put a dye tablet or several drops of food coloring in the toilet in the tank. Wait 15 minutes. Do not flush the toilet during this time. If colored water appears in the toilet bowl, you have a leak from the tank into the bowl.

Second: Check all faucets for drips or leaks. Remember to check faucets that are not normally used. Downstairs, outside etc.