Water Consumption

There are a number of factors that cause significant increases in water consumption, which you may notice if your bill suddenly increases.

Water use typically increases during the summer months when you water your lawn, or if you have guests in your home.

Leaking faucets or toilets can also cause increased consumption.

If you suspect a leak, you can monitor your water meter overnight. Write down your meter reading, including the number after the decimal point, before going to bed (If your meter is solar powered you may have to use a flashlight to activate reading). Don’t use any water overnight and read the meter again in the morning. If the number after the decimal point has changed, something in the home is using water.

Toilets are often the biggest culprits. Minor problems can cause silent leaks which go unnoticed. To check for a leaking toilet place a few drops of food coloring in your toilet tank. DO NOT FLUSH. Wait for 15-20 minutes. If the food coloring shows up in the toilet bowl, you have a leak.

Dripping taps and shower heads are usually obvious, and can also add up to increased water bills.

Water pipes within the house could be leaking and should also be checked.

Leaks are wasted water and every cubic meter is registered on your meter.

Check out our water conservation tips for information to help you save water.

Going away on vacation?

If you’ll be gone for more than a few days, it’s a good idea to turn off your outside tap at the shut off valve inside your house to prevent tampering while you’re away.