Most plumbing issues start small—but if left unchecked, they can lead to higher water bills, property damage, or unnecessary strain on the District’s system.
The good news: a few simple checks—paired with tools like EyeOnWater—can help you catch problems early and keep everything running smoothly.
Toilet Leaks (Silent Water Wasters)
What to look for:
- Toilet running long after flushing
- Hissing or trickling sounds
- Random refilling when not in use
Why it matters:
A faulty fill valve can waste hundreds of gallons of water per day without you noticing.
Quick tip:
Remove the tank lid and watch the fill cycle. If it doesn’t shut off cleanly, it may be time for a replacement.
EyeOnWater Tip:
If your app shows continuous water use when no one is home, a running toilet is often the cause.
Irrigation & Outdoor Leaks
What to look for:
- Soggy spots in the yard
- Sprinkler heads with low pressure
- Systems running longer than expected
Why it matters:
Outdoor leaks are easy to miss but can significantly increase your water bill.
Quick tip:
Run your system monthly and do a quick walk-through to check for leaks or broken heads.
EyeOnWater Tip:
Check your daily usage after irrigation runs. Unexpected spikes can signal a leak or stuck valve.
Faucet Screens (Aerators)
What to look for:
- Reduced water pressure
- Uneven or splashing flow
Why it matters:
Mineral buildup or debris can clog screens, especially after line repairs or maintenance work.
Quick tip:
Unscrew and rinse faucet screens every few months—it’s a quick fix with immediate results.
Hidden Leaks (Inside & Outside)
What to look for:
- Unexpected spikes in your water bill
- Damp cabinets, walls, or ceilings
- A water meter that moves when no water is being used
Why it matters:
Even small leaks can waste thousands of gallons over time and cause costly damage.
Quick tip:
Check your water meter before and after a couple of hours with no water use. If it changes, you may have a leak.
EyeOnWater Tip:
EyeOnWater can do this for you automatically by tracking continuous flow and sending alerts.
Tankless Water Heater Maintenance
Many homes in the district use tankless water heaters. These systems are efficient and long-lasting—but they do require routine maintenance.
What to look for:
- Fluctuating water temperatures
- Reduced hot water flow
- Error codes on the unit
Why it matters:
Mineral buildup can restrict flow and reduce efficiency over time. Set your tankless hot water heater to 112° for optimal performance and to reduce the risk of scale buildup.
How to Set the Temperature on a Rinnai Tankless Water Heater*:
(source)
Unplug the unit. For safety, always unplug any appliance before continuing.
Remove the front cover by removing the screws behind the plastic tabs on the 4 corners of the plate.
Locate the dip switches, which are located under the bottom right corner beneath the label.
Find dip switch number 6 and turn it on. You may use a small screwdriver if necessary.
Replace the front cover, securing it with the screws and reclip the plastic tabs.
Plug the unit back in.
Quick tip:
Schedule a yearly flush/descaling service and clean the inlet filter periodically—especially after any system repairs in the area.
Learn more about how to maintain your tankless hot water heater here: [Link to https://hcmud490.org/posts/2026-03-13/keep-your-tankless-hot-water-heater-running-strong/]
*Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when servicing appliances in your home.
Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when servicing appliances in your home.
What Not to Flush or Drain
Avoid putting these down the drain:
- Grease or cooking oil
- “Flushable” wipes
- Paper towels or hygiene products
Why it matters:
These items can clog your home plumbing and contribute to blockages in the district’s wastewater system.
A Few Extra Items to Check
- Washing machine hoses for cracks or bulging
- Main water shutoff valve (know where it is!)
- Slow drains or gurgling sounds that could signal a larger issue
Simple Maintenance Checklist
- Check toilets for leaks
- Inspect irrigation systems regularly
- Clean faucet aerators
- Monitor your water use regularly with EyeOnWater
- Schedule annual tankless water heater maintenance
Stay One Step Ahead
The easiest way to avoid major plumbing issues is to catch them early. Combining routine home checks with tools like EyeOnWater gives you better visibility into what’s happening behind the scenes.
When in Doubt, Act Early
If something doesn’t seem right, it’s always better to address it early. Small plumbing issues can quickly turn into bigger, more expensive problems if ignored.