Questions and tips on what to do if you suspect you might have a water leak
What can I do if my bill is higher than normal?
- Review recent usage habits to determine if there has been a change including: a change in address, more people in your home, or if you've moved to a new address
- Read your water meter. If your reading is lower than the reading on your bill give us a call at (813) 272-6680, if the reading is higher the read is correct. A higher meter read and no changes in usage habits may indicate a leak
What if I suspect a leak?
If you suspect a leak, you can check these common places to identify the source of the leak.
Toilets
Add a few drops of food coloring to your toilet tank and wait about 15 minutes. If the color shows up in your bowl, you have a leak allowing water to flow from the tank to your drain without ever flushing.
Faucets
Faucets in the bathroom or kitchen can develop leaks. These dripping faucets can use 3 gallons per minute. Check all outdoor faucets to make sure they are turned off and not leaking
Water softeners
Check your water softener to make sure it’s not stuck on backflush, which will continually use water.
Irrigation systems
Read your meter before and after your scheduled lawn sprinkling. This will tell you how much water the cycle uses. Check that your irrigation controller is still running correctly. Inspect sprinkler heads while running.
How can I read my water meter to check for leaks?
Your water meter is generally located near the curb in front of your home or place of business in a direct line with the main outside faucet and housed in a plastic meter box.
- Make sure there is no water being used in your home and your irrigation system is not on
- Verify the meter number engraved on the water meter to ensure it matches the meter number on your bill
- Next, check your water meter and write down the reading and the position of the red sweep hand
- Wait two hours, making sure not to use any water in your home or lawn, and then check your water meter again. The two readings should be identical. If the second is higher or the red sweep hand has moved, you may have a leak.
The leak is fixed. Now what?
Customers who have experienced a high water bill due to a plumbing leak, may be eligible for a leak adjustment review. Once your leak is repaired, you can apply for a leak adjustment on your water bill.