Seek the Leak
Did you know that even a small leak can waste 300 or more gallons of water per month? Check for the following leaks outdoors:
Water Faucets, Hoses and Connectors
Check all faucets, hoses and connectors periodically for leaks and to make sure they are in good working order. Make sure faucets are closed when not in use. If you do find a leaky faucet, change the washer — after turning off the shutoff valve.
Automatic Lawn and Sprinkling Systems
Soft, wet spots on your lawn around the in-ground sprinkler could indicate a leak that is being absorbed into the ground. Contact your plumber or landscape maintenance specialist if repairs are needed.
Swimming Pool
Check the pool system’s shutoff valve, which works automatically, to see if it is malfunctioning and causing a continuous cycle of water to be pumped in and then drained out. If the water level stays higher than normal and it overflows when people are using it, call your plumber.
Service Connecting Line
If you find a soft, wet spot on your lawn or hear the sound of running water outside your house, you may have a leak in the service line to your house. Water soaks into the ground, causing the soft spots. Close the main shutoff valve. If the sound of running water continues, the outside service line could be leaking. Contact your plumber if you detect wet spots.