Going back to our last blog post, the cities of Seattle and Everett have asked residents in both municipalities to reduce their water usage by 10%. While these restrictions are voluntary, it’s the first solid sign that water restrictions may get more drastic if the area’s typically wet fall season stays drier than expected.

If conditions should worsen, we could see water bans for specific times of the day and surcharges for excess use. Homeowners concerned about their water usage have several options available to them to prevent unnecessary water loss.

1. Check All Pipes, Hoses, and Water Mains for Leaks

Worn or rusted pipes and hoses are perfect culprits for slow leaks. While these are rarely noticeable or appear as disastrous as a geysering water burst, a slow dripping leak from a faucet can send over 20 gallons of water down your drain per day. And while pipes and plumbing should be given special consideration, any appliance that connects to your water supply has the potential to break down and do damage to your home. Stock hoses and connectors that come with dishwashers and washing machines are often of significantly lower quality than aftermarket hoses, which tend to last longer with rotting away or cracking.

2. Replace Your Old Plumbing

Leaky faucets, old toilets, and especially outdated outdoor irrigation systems get worn down with age. Cracked seals, corroded pipes, and worn washers can all contribute to slow or major water leaks. While it’s not a cheap solution to your water problems, new plumbing fixtures tend to have much better water efficiency standards and can actually save you money on your water bills for years to come by using less water to begin with.

3. Identify and Correct Subterranean Leaks in Your Home

Are there pipes leaking beneath layers of concrete in your home? Do you even know for sure? If you’ve worked your way through all the sure signs of a home leak and still can’t find the source of the problem, the answer may lie beneath several feet of construction material, concrete, or dirt. Only a specialized leak detection company can quickly find the source of your buried leak and identify the best way in which to repair it.

When you’re ready to plug your water, HVAC, or roof leaks and start saving both water and money for years to come, contact Clearwater Leak Detection today to schedule a leak detection appointment.