Water Leaks

Occasionally customers may experience a leak in their plumbing systems. Here is some information on how to report a leak, the most common water leaks, and how to check for one.

Report a Leak

To report a water leak, call the Public Works office. If it is after hours, please call (618) 242-2131.

Checking for Leaks

The average household's leaks account for nearly 10,000 gallons of water wasted every year and ten percent of homes have leaks that waste 90 gallons or more per day. Common types of leaks found in the home are worn toilet flappers, dripping faucets, and other leaking valves. These types of leaks are often easy to fix, requiring only a few tools and hardware that can pay for themselves in water savings. Fixing easily corrected household water leaks can save homeowners about 10 percent on their water bills.

Faucet Leaks

The next place to check for leaks is your sink and bathtub faucets. Old and worn faucet washers and gaskets frequently cause leaks in faucets. A leaky faucet that drips at the rate of one drip per second can waste more than 3,000 gallons per year. Replacing the rubber O-ring or washer inside the valve can usually repair dripping faucets. Don’t forget to check for leaks on outside faucets and make sure the valve closes properly.

Showerhead Leaks

 A showerhead leaking at 10 drips per minute wastes more than 500 gallons per year. Some leaky showerheads can be fixed by making sure there is a tight connection between the showerhead and the pipe stem and by using pipe tape to secure it. Pipe tape, also called Teflon tape, is available at most hardware stores, is easy to apply, and can help control leaks.

Still Have a Leak?

If you have checked your toilets, faucets, and showerheads and no leaks were found, a thorough inspection of your pipes, lines, connections, and valves under your home or in your basement would be the next step.