Fix-A-Leak

Did you know a household leak that drips at the rate of one drop per second can waste up to 3,000 gallons per year? 

In honor of the EPA’s Fix-A-Leak Week, held annually in March, Water Wise Wendy has put together a series of tips for you to find and fix leaks in your home – a great way to save water any time!

After you watch each of the videos, take some time to search for leaks with the help of Water Wise Wendy’s Fix-A-Leak activity sheets.

Download here: Water Wise Wendy Fix-A-Leak Activity Sheets

Fix-A-Leak Tip #1 Check your water meter 

Water Wise Wendy’s first tip is to check your water meter. First, turn off all the water faucets in your house, and make sure you do not have any water using appliances running like the washing machine or dishwasher. Then, locate your water meter. It is usually near your curb, but could be in your basement, or garage. Read your meter, then wait two hours. Check the meter again…if there has been movement, it could indicate you have a leak and need to find and repair it. 

Fix-A-Leak Tip #2 Check for toilet leaks with food color drops

Toilet leaks are not always simple to spot because the water leaks from the tank into the bowl. Water Wise Wendy has a simple trick to help with that – food coloring! Put a few drops of food coloring into the tank then wait for 10 minutes and check the bowl. If the water in the bowl has changed color, you can install a new toilet flapper to stop the leak.

Fix-A-Leak Tip #3 Listen for running water

The sound of running water is normal for a minute or so after you flush. However, if it keeps running for longer than that, you could have a leak. Water Wise Wendy always likes to keep an ear out for the sound of running water to make sure none of it is being wasted. 

Fix-A-Leak Tip #4 Look for signs of moisture

Put on your detective cap and grab your magnifying glass to search your house for signs of moisture. Water Wise Wendy says water-wasting clues include bubbling paint, bulging wallpaper or tell-tale water spots on walls or ceilings. These could mean there is pipe leaking inside your wall and it is time to call a plumber. 

Fix-A-Leak Tip #5 Don’t forget your outdoor faucets

We see our indoor faucets everyday, but Water Wise Wendy is here to tell you that our outdoor faucets also need some attention and care. Make sure to inspect your hose bib, also known as an outdoor faucet or the place you connect your water hose, to be sure there are no signs of rust or leaks. 

Fix-A-Leak Tip #6 Listen for dripping faucets

Listening for dripping faucets may be easier when you have super hearing like bunnies or Water Wise Wendy, but this simple tip can help you save thousands of gallons of water per year! Keep your ears open, and be sure to get leaks repaired quickly. 

Fix-A-Leak Tip #7 Look for signs of leaks under sinks

Water Wise Wendy is no stranger to the places pipes, and leaks, lurk! Check under your sinks for pools of moisture or signs of rust on pipes. 

Fix-A-Leak Tip #8 Check your sprinkler heads

Although a magnifying glass isn’t required to check your sprinkler heads, Water Wise Wendy thinks it makes the inspection process more thorough. Look for any signs of damage or if water is spraying in the wrong direction.