Ways to Detect a Water Leak

You May Have a Toilet Leak if...

• You hear water running when not using the toilet(s).
• The toilet handle sticks or you have to jiggle the handle.
• There is an unknown increase in your water bill.
• Please keep in mind, not all toilet leaks are easily heard.

If You Think You May Have a Leak...

• Add food coloring to the toilet tank (if the toilet is leaking, color will appear in the toilet bowl within 30 minutes) flush as soon as the test is completed as food coloring may stain the bowl.
• Check toilet(s) parts which may be out of adjustment or worn out.
• Every meter in the City of Oshkosh has a flow finder on it. They are either blue spindles or black triangles. Flow finders move even if there is only a small amount of water being used.
• Make sure your home doesn't have hidden water leaks. Do a quick check by reading your water meter before you leave for the day (as long as the house is empty when you are gone). If your meter doesn't have the same reading when you return home, you probably have a leak.

Leaking Faucet(s)

• Check internal and external faucets for leaks.
• Consider faucet aerators on sink faucets.
• Check and clean the screen on your faucets.
• Repair dripping faucets by replacing washers.
• If your faucet is dripping at a rate of one drop per second, you can expect to waste 2,700 gallons per year. This adds to the cost of water and sewer utilities.

**If you do find and fix a leak, please contact the City of Oshkosh Water Utility at 920-232-5325. You may qualify for a leak adjustment on your utility bill.