Do I have a leak?

NOTE: Do not shut off District meter valves. If you do not have a customer shut off valve and need your water turned off, please call the District at (909) 336-7100 24 hours/day, 7 days/week to shut off the District meter (a $100 after hours fee may apply for non-emergencies.)

If you suspect a leak, the easiest way to confirm is to check the reading on your meter by taking the following steps:

1. Make sure all faucets and water-using appliances, inside and out, are turned off.
2. Check the reading on your meter. Your water meter is underground in a rectangular box with a green lid, usually found near the street. There is a small dial, which moves clockwise.
   NOTE: Anytime you remove the lid on a meter box, be careful as there are wires connecting the lid and the meter.
3. Without using any water, wait for approximately 30 minutes. Then recheck the meter. If the hand has moved or number has changed, water is leaking (or running) somewhere on your property.

The most common cause of a small leak is a toilet. Free toilet tank leak detector tablets are available upon request. You may also place a few drops of food coloring in the toilet tank. If any color appears in the bowl, the toilet is leaking. Please contact a District Water Conservation Representative at (909) 336-7100.

If you need assistance to locate your water meter or test for leaks, please contact the Customer Service Specialist at the District Office at (909) 336-7100.

“Silent” Leaks and “Unexplainable” Water Usage

Any number of factors can contribute to water consumption, and they are not always explainable. However, when water passes through your water meter, you, as the property owner, are responsible for payment.

“Silent” leaks, which often occur in toilets, are known to cause a serious increase in water consumption, but can, over a period of time, correct themselves. Hence, the term “silent.” They cannot be heard, and usually can only be detected by dropping a dye tablet or food coloring into the toilet tank. If the coloring reaches the bowl of the toilet, it indicates a leak.

Irrigation systems can fail and run slowly without being detected. If there is snow on the ground, a leak may allow water to seep into the ground and not be discovered for several months.

Water Theft

There is also a possibility that someone could be using your water from outside faucets. A shut off valve can prevent such use when your home is vacant.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service staff at (909) 336-7100.