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WATER LEAKS:  WHAT CAN YOU DO?

Leaky Sink Drain Pipe

Research shows that the typical home can lose 2,000 to 20,000 gallons of water per year due to leaks from pipes, plumbing, fixtures, and fittings. Undetected leaks in service lines and plumbing under a home could also be a large source of leaks and may even go undetected for years because a leak is invisible. 

Suggestions for minimizing leaks:
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  • Regularly check your household plumbing, faucets, showerheads, and toilets for dripping or running water. Fix any leaks immediately.

  • Regularly check your drip irrigation system (emitters) for leaks, and put it on a timer so that it operates only as often as needed.  Do not activate an irrigation system until early or mid-May while there is still a risk of freezing temperatures.  Do not leave hoses and irrigation systems pressurized when not in use.

  • Investigate any unexplained wet spots on the ground near your home.

  • Have someone check your house regularly if you are gone for an extended period of time.  You may want to turn off the water to your home at your main water shut-off valve if no water is needed while away.  If no main water shut-off exists inside the home, it is recommended that a plumber install one, and make sure everyone in the home knows where it is located.

  • Check the water use on your monthly bill from the District and watch for any unexplained or sudden increase in water use. 

  • Regularly monitor water usage on your EyeOnWater account and set program alerts by email or text if the meter detects a leak in your plumbing.

  • If you suspect a leak, call a plumber to identify its location and cause. It is important to keep in mind that the District’s field technicians cannot locate or fix any leaks on the customer's side of the meter since that is considered part of your household plumbing system.

  • If you experience a leak that results in a significant increase in your water bill, ask our staff about the District’s Leak Adjustment Policy and special payment plan.

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Leak Adjustment Policy
Man Signing

EAWSD recognizes that large leaks sometimes occur on the customer's side of the meter and has developed a policy to provide limited relief in such cases. To read the policy, Click here.  Please note,  EAWSD is not allowed to cancel charges owing to the anti-donation clause in the New Mexico State Constitution.

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