Water leaks can be a major headache for homeowners, especially in a place like Bali where water is a precious resource. Not only do they lead to inflated water bills, but they can also cause significant damage to your property. This article will explore how to identify, troubleshoot, and resolve water leaks to keep your property and wallet happy.

The Hidden Cost of Leaks

Did you know that even a small leak can waste a surprising amount of water? A seemingly minor drip or a running toilet can quickly add up, costing you a fortune. Consider this: a cupful of water lost every ten seconds translates to roughly 134,000 liters per month. That’s a significant amount of water, and a significant amount of money down the drain. It is essential to be vigilant about potential leaks, because water meters measure water usage in cubic meters, with one cubic meter equalling 1,000 liters.

Identifying a Water Leak

The first step is to determine if you have a leak in the first place. Here are a few ways to tell:

• Check Your Water Bill: If your water bill suddenly spikes without a change in your water usage, that could be a sign of a leak.
• Monitor Your Water Meter: A water meter that spins quickly, even when all taps and water-using appliances are turned off, can indicate a major problem. Ideally, the meter should stop turning completely when no water is being used.
• Look for Wet Spots: Pools of water or damp patches on the ground can point to a leak. Remember, water can travel underground, so the leak might be some distance from the wet area.
• Listen for Running Water: Pay attention to the sounds around your property. Can you hear a toilet running, or a tap dripping?

Common Causes of Leaks

Once you suspect a leak, it’s time to investigate. Here are some common causes of water leaks:

• Faulty Toilets and Taps: Running toilets and dripping taps are some of the most common sources of leaks.
• Broken Pipes: Damaged or cracked pipes, especially those buried underground, can lead to significant leaks.
• Poorly Glued Pipe Joints: In new construction and renovations, it is common for plumbers to assemble pipework before gluing it. If a joint is missed it will result in a leak. Plastic PVC pipe joints can also come apart.
• Overflowing Septic Tanks: If your septic tank is full and overflowing, it can appear as a water leak.
• Variations in Water Pressure: In reticulated or “town” water supply systems, pressure can fluctuate greatly, even to the point of blowing pipes off the taps.

Finding the Leak: Detective Work

Finding the source of a water leak can sometimes require some detective work. Here are a few steps to follow:

• Start with the Obvious: First, check all the usual suspects: taps, toilets, and any exposed pipes.
• Check for Wet Patches: Look carefully for pools of water or wet patches in the ground, particularly around vegetation or in areas where pipes may run.
• Examine Your Property: Investigate the perimeter of your property to find the source of the water. A leak might not be on your property, but you may be paying for it.
• Trace Your Pipes: If you have access to the original building plans, look for water pipe layouts. This will help you determine the most likely locations of pipes and leaks. If plans are unavailable, use your construction knowledge to determine the likely path of the pipework.
• Be Careful When Digging: Avoid using sharp tools when digging for pipes.

Preventing Future Leaks

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are a few preventative measures to minimize the risk of future water leaks:

• Get Layout Plans: When building or buying a new home, always insist on getting layout plans for all the services, including water, drainage, and sewage.
• Consider Maintenance: When building or renovating, have your builder consider maintenance when deciding where to put pipes and wiring.
• Isolate Sewerage from Drainage: It is essential that septic and drainage systems are kept separate from each other to prevent raw sewage from entering open drains.
• Regularly Check Your System: Check your water meter regularly to ensure it stops spinning when no water is in use. Check your taps and toilets to make sure they are not running or dripping.

Conclusion

Water leaks can be a nuisance, but with a little knowledge and attention, they can be identified and resolved quickly. If you suspect you have a leak, don’t hesitate to investigate. Early detection and repair can save you both money and water. By taking a proactive approach to water management, you can protect your property and do your part in conserving water.