Water conservation starts with understanding how water is being used and recognizing when something isn't right. Leaking toilets, faucets, service lines, irrigation systems, and other plumbing problems can waste a surprising amount of water and may go unnoticed until water usage increases significantly.
Regularly checking your property for leaks and monitoring your water usage can help conserve water and identify problems before they become more costly.
Watch for Signs of a Leak
Unexpected or unexplained water usage can be one of the first signs of a leak. Periodically check your home or business and surrounding property for signs of water loss.
- Check toilets, faucets, showerheads, outdoor spigots, hoses, irrigation systems, pools, and other water-using equipment for leaks.
- Look for unexplained wet areas, standing water, or unusually green vegetation that could indicate an underground leak.
- Listen for toilets that continue running or periodically refill when they have not been used.
- To check a toilet for a silent leak, place a few drops of food coloring in the tank without flushing. If the color appears in the bowl, the toilet may be leaking.
- Check water heaters and other water-using appliances for signs of leakage.
- Investigate unexpected increases or changes in your normal water usage.
A small leak can add up quickly. Even a seemingly minor leak can result in significant water loss when it continues around the clock.
Monitor Your Water Usage
Rose Hill SUD's Customer Portal provides customers with convenient access to water usage information and available usage alerts. Reviewing your usage regularly can help you recognize unusual consumption that may indicate a leak or other plumbing problem.
If You Find a Leak
If you discover a leak on your property, shut off the affected fixture or appliance when possible. If necessary, use your customer-owned shutoff valve to stop water service to the property and help prevent additional water loss or damage.
Customers should know where their customer-owned shutoff valve is located and how to operate it before an emergency occurs.
KNOW HOW TO SHUT OFF YOUR WATER
If a leak appears to involve a District water main, water meter, or other District-owned facility, please contact Rose Hill SUD at 972-932-3077.
Use Water Wisely Indoors
Simple habits and properly maintained plumbing can help reduce unnecessary water use.
- Turn off faucets when water is not needed, such as while brushing your teeth or shaving.
- Run dishwashers and washing machines with full loads whenever possible.
- Repair dripping faucets, running toilets, and leaking fixtures promptly.
- Choose water-efficient fixtures and appliances when replacing older equipment.
- Periodically inspect plumbing connections, appliances, and fixtures for signs of leakage.
Water Outdoors Efficiently
Outdoor water use can increase significantly during warmer months. A few simple practices can help make outdoor watering more efficient.
- Water lawns and landscaping only when needed.
- Water during cooler parts of the day to reduce evaporation.
- Adjust sprinkler heads so water stays on lawns and landscaping rather than streets, sidewalks, and driveways.
- Regularly check irrigation systems for leaks and broken or misaligned sprinkler heads.
- Avoid watering during windy or rainy conditions.
- Consider drip irrigation or soaker hoses for flowerbeds, shrubs, and other appropriate landscaping.
- Use mulch around plants to help retain soil moisture.
- Choose native or drought-tolerant plants appropriate for our area.
- Use a broom rather than a hose to clean sidewalks and driveways.
Every Drop Counts
Water conservation doesn't have to mean making major changes. Paying attention to everyday water use, repairing leaks promptly, and monitoring your usage can make a meaningful difference over time.
If you have questions about your water usage or believe you may have a problem involving District facilities, please contact Rose Hill SUD at 972-932-3077.
