Residential Water Leaks

In an average residence, 22 gallons of water are lost to leakage each day, and the most common culprits are leaking toilets or dripping faucets. This daily leakage volume is about equal to the amount of drinking water a family of 3 needs for two full weeks! The annual water and sewer cost for 22 gallons of leakage is $80 per household.

It is not uncommon to find toilets leaking much more water than the average 22 gallons. Silent toilets leaks can account for up to 300 gallons per day of lost water without anybody noticing the leakage. A dye tablet or 10 drops of food coloring can be used to check a toilet for leaks. Place the tablet or food coloring into the toilet tank. If color appears in the bowl after waiting 10 minutes, see our fixing leaks information.

Toilet leak detection tablets, and other water conservation devices are available free of charge to Portland Water Bureau residential customers.