Leak Detection

Plumbing Malfunctions


If your water bill is higher than normal, please check your plumbing fixtures for possible malfunctions.

Each water meter is equipped with a leak detector. Depending on the age of your water meter this may be a black triangle, or a red circle with a black line. If no water is running in your house ( i.e. dishwasher, wash machine, shower) the leak detector should not be rotating, if it is rotating you may have a leak. Please check the following:

Toilet Leaks



A leak inside your toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day.

A toilet running is the most common cause for higher water usage. These leaks can be hard to find and are usually caused by a bad flapper valve, flapper not seating correctly, position of float arm, or defective overflow tube. To test your toilet for leaks a dye packet or food coloring can be placed in the tank, do not flush the toilet, let the toilet stand for 15-20 minutes.  If any of the color is found in the bowl after this time, you have a leak.

Dye packets can be requested from the Water Department at (641) 257-6315.

Dripping Faucets



A dripping faucet can waste 20 gallons of water per day.

Faucet leaks are easily detected. If it drips or continues running after you shut it off, it needs to be repaired. If the dripping water is hot, it is costing you even more money.

Problems with plumbing fixtures may be due to old age, corrosion, or normal wear and tear.