The earlier you identify a leak the better. A routine check of you water appliances is a great way to ensure you’re not using and paying for more water than you need to.

Here’s a list of common (and not so common) leaks that could be costing you money.

Toilets

Toilets are one of the most common causes of household leaks and can really add up. A trickle can add more than $425 a year while a noticeable leak could be as much as $3,000 or more. 

To check if your toilet is leaking try the paper test. Place a piece of toilet paper at the back of the toilet bowl. Make sure the back of toilet pan is dry (best to wait 30 mins after the last flush). Leave it there for a few minutes (make sure no on uses the toilet during this time). If the paper is wet or torn you may have a leak.

Taps

Don’t underestimate the impact of a dripping tap. They can waste up to 20,000 litres of water per year or 55 litres a day, costing you as much as $25 extra each bill.

If you notice a tap dripping the most likely cause is a worn washer, which you may be able to replace yourself.

Evaporative coolers

Evaporative coolers are generally located on rooftops. When you are using your cooler it is normally for a small amount of water to drip from the pipe. If there is a leak you would see water running down the roof even when the system is turned off or a wet patch may appear on an internal ceiling or wall.

Hot water units

The most common problem with hot water systems is that the Pressure Temperature Relief Valve (PTRV) can malfunction and continually release water.

As hot water services are generally located on the side of a house (where people normally don’t walk) these leaks can go undetected for some time. To check for a leak simply locate your hot water unity and see if there is water running out of the pipe.

Irrigation systems

Unexplained wet patches in the garden can indicate a fault or leak with your irrigation system.