Received a High Water Usage Alert? Here's How to Find Potential Water Loss Around Your Property
- Water Tank Solutions
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Many homeowners are surprised to receive a notification from their local council advising that their property has recorded unusually high water usage. While increased water consumption can sometimes be explained by filling a swimming pool, irrigation, or seasonal demand, it can also indicate an undetected leak that could be costing you money and wasting valuable water.
If you've recently received a high water usage alert, don't panic. There are several common causes that can often be identified and resolved quickly.
Common Causes of Unexpected Water Usage
Underground Water Leaks
One of the most common causes of excessive water consumption is a leak in an underground water pipe. Because these leaks occur below the surface, they can go unnoticed for months.
Signs of an underground leak may include:
Constantly wet or boggy areas in the lawn
Unusually green patches of grass
Water pooling where there shouldn't be any
Reduced water pressure inside the home
The sound of running water when no taps are in use
Even a small underground leak can waste thousands of litres of water each month.
Leaking Toilets
A running toilet is one of the biggest hidden water wasters in any home. A faulty valve or cistern seal can allow water to continuously flow into the bowl without being obvious.
A simple test is to add a few drops of food colouring to the cistern and wait 15-20 minutes without flushing. If colour appears in the bowl, the toilet is leaking.
Dripping Taps and Faulty Fixtures
While a dripping tap may seem insignificant, multiple leaks throughout a property can add up over time. Outdoor taps, garden hoses, and stock trough valves are common culprits on rural properties.
Irrigation System Leaks
Automatic irrigation systems can develop leaks, damaged sprinklers, split pipes, or faulty solenoids that allow water to flow continuously.
Check for:
Sprinkler heads that don't retract properly
Areas of excessive pooling
Wet spots along irrigation lines
Systems operating outside programmed schedules
Water Tank and Pump Issues
For properties with rainwater harvesting systems, faulty float valves, tank overflows, or pump control issues can contribute to unnecessary water loss.
Overflow pipes that are continuously dripping or flowing should be investigated promptly.
How to Check for a Leak
One of the easiest ways to determine if water is being lost is to monitor your water meter.
Turn off all taps, appliances, irrigation systems, and water-using equipment.
Locate your water meter and record the reading.
Wait one to two hours without using any water.
Check the meter again.
If the reading has changed, water is likely being lost somewhere on the property.
How WTS Can Help
At WTS, we regularly assist homeowners, lifestyle block owners, and rural properties with identifying and resolving water loss issues.
Our experienced team can:
Inspect water supply systems for leaks
Check pumps, pressure systems and control equipment
Assess irrigation systems for faults and inefficiencies
Inspect water tanks, pipework and fittings
Identify hidden sources of water loss
Recommend repairs and long-term solutions
We understand that finding a leak can be frustrating, particularly when it isn't visible. Our technicians have the experience and equipment to systematically investigate your water system and help pinpoint the cause.
Protect Your Water Supply and Your Wallet
Water is a valuable resource, and undetected leaks can result in significant costs over time. If you've received a high water usage notification or suspect a leak on your property, early investigation can prevent further water loss and costly repairs.
Need Help Investigating High Water Usage?
Contact WTS today. Our team can help identify potential water loss, assess your water system, and recommend practical solutions to get your usage back under control across Cambridge and the wider Waikato Region.
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