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Leak Detection

A leak can be inside or outside your home. Some are easy to see. Others can be difficult to detect. Both can lead to substantial increases in your monthly bill.
KC Water is responsible for repairing leaks on water meters and public water mains. Internal leaks, sprinkler leaks, and leaks on the customer’s service line – running between the service connection and the building – are the homeowner’s responsibility. This includes all pipes between the service connection and the structure, irrigation systems, and indoor plumbing.

Common indoor leaks

  • The toilet is the most common source of a leak inside a home. One way to find out if you have a toilet leak is to place a dye tablet in the toilet tank. If color appears in the bowl after 10-15 minutes, you have a leak. (Flush immediately to avoid staining the toilet). Usually, replacing the flapper valve in the tank will do the trick. A leaking toilet can waste 4,000 gallons of water per day. You can request dye tablets by calling KC Water at 816-513-1313 (Option 1) during regular business hours.
  • Leaky faucets can be fixed by checking faucet washers and gaskets for wear and replacing them if necessary.
  • A showerhead leaking at 10 drips per minute can waste more than 500 gallons of water per year. That’s the amount of water it takes to wash 60 loads of dishes in your dishwasher. Most leaking showerheads can be replaced by ensuring a tight seal and checking the washer and replacing it if necessary.

Common outdoor leaks

  • An irrigation system with a leak about the thickness of a dime can waste as much as 6,300 gallons of water per month. Be sure to check your system before use each spring to make sure it wasn’t damaged by frost or freezing.
  • Check you garden hose for leaks at the spigot. If it leaks while in use, replace the nylon or rubber hose washer.
  • Exterior spigot. A hose left dripping in the grass or garden can waste thousands of gallons of water over the summer. Close the faucet tightly after each use.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has more leak information online, including a short informational video, at https://www.epa.gov/watersense/fix-leak-week.