Suspect a water leak?

July 13, 2022 1:00 p.m.
​Learn what to look for and how to check for leaks

 

Water leaks from toilets, washing machines, dishwashers and more can be nearly invisible and hard to spot. They can also cause a high water bill and damage to your home. That’s why the City of Vaughan is providing tips you can use to help catch leaks early on or possibly before they even happen.

A simple way to test for leaks is to ensure water is not being used in your home at the end of the day – in other words, avoid running washing machines, dishwashers, sprinklers or toilets – and record the number on your water meter. Do not use any water or flush any toilets overnight. First thing in the morning, check the number on your water meter. If the number has changed, then you may have a water leak somewhere inside or outside of your home.

The most common cause of high water and wastewater bills is leaking toilets. To check for a toilet leak, follow these steps:

  • Remove the tank lid from the toilet.
  • Drop about five drops of food colouring in the toilet tank. If you do not have food colouring, try using Worcestershire sauce or another very dark liquid.
  • Close the toilet lid and wait 30 minutes. If coloured water seeps into the toilet bowl, you have a leak. The flapper valve may need to be replaced or realigned.
  • If the bowl is clear and all the coloured water remains in the tank, you do not have a leak.
  • Repeat these steps with all toilets in your home.

If you suspect a water leak in your home, call a licensed plumber to investigate and repair as soon as possible. For more information on water conservation and checking for leaks, read the City’s water wise brochure (PDF).

The City has an Accidental Water Leak Adjustment Policy (PDF), which provides one-time financial support for eligible residents who are Alectra Utilities account holders and not-for-profit organizations who have experienced an unintentional water leak due to failed plumbing, such as a leaky toilet or faucet. For details on the policy, including eligibility to apply, visit the City’s Accidental Water Leak Adjustment webpage.

For more information on water in Vaughan, visit vaughan.ca/water.

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