City of Davis

Leak detection

Leaks can be the biggest water waster of all. If you feel your water use is high, you can request assistance from the Public Works Department free of charge by calling 757-5686. Public Works staff will determine if there is a leak on your property and in most cases can quantify water losses. A trained technician will come to your home and check for indoor, outdoor and whole system leaks

• toilets are checked for leaks—a running toilet can use as much as 4,000 gallons (5 CCF) per day!
• shower head and faucet flow rates are measured
• efficiency of the irrigation system is evaluated
• technician may recommend an irrigation water schedule or identify irrigation leaks
• a report is provided with findings and recommendations
• water efficiency program materials and tips are provided

To request a free water leak check or water use analysis, please call Public Works at 757-5686 during business hours. (Monday - Friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM)

Some leaks you can easily fix yourself:

• Check for toilet tank leaks by adding a dye tablet to the toilet tank (You can also use food coloring). Dye tablets are provided free of charge to Davis residents at the Public Works Department. Stop by anytime M-F between 8 am- 5pm to pick up a free dye tablet to check for toilet tank leaks. You can also use food coloring. After adding the dye tablet (or food coloring) into the toilet tank, wait for 30 minutes. If the toilet is leaking, color will appear in the toilet bowl within 30 minutes (flush as soon as test is done, since food coloring may stain tank). Check the toilet for worn out, corroded or bent parts. Most replacement parts are inexpensive, readily available, and easily installed.
• If the toilet flapper frequently sticks in the flush position, letting water run constantly, replace or adjust it.