National Fix A Leak Week – Why It Still Matters

The 16th–20th of March marks National Fix A Leak Week, but as it coincided with the global outbreak, most of us had unprecedented situations to manage. Now, with varying levels of lockdown across the world, it’s a good time to revisit it.

National Fix A Leak Week highlights the connection between water preservation and environmental protection. It reminds us how everyday habits contribute to water waste — and how small changes can help conserve this essential resource.

Water is so common in our daily lives that we often overlook how valuable it truly is. It is estimated that each household wastes around 10,000 gallons of water per year. On a global scale, the number becomes unimaginable.

To help you do your part in reducing water waste, here are some helpful tips from industry experts:

1. Check Your Water Bill
   This is one of the most reliable ways to identify hidden leaks. Compare your water bills over a three to four-month period and, if possible, compare with older bills (note that the price per unit may have changed). Fixing leaks can save around 10% on your water bill. For reference, the average person uses 170–280 litres of water per day. In Dubai, due to extreme heat, the average is closer to 550 litres per day.
2. Monitor Your Meter
   Choose a 3–4 hour period when no water will be used (late at night or when you can control all appliances). Check your meter before and after. If the reading changes, it may indicate a faulty meter or a hidden leak.
3. Check the Usual Suspects Regularly
   Leaks commonly occur around toilets, sinks, baths, showers, and appliances that use water. Inspect these areas for drips or pooling water and repair leaks immediately if found.
4. Check Around the Home
   Not all leaks show up as water pooling. Damp patches or mould can also indicate unwanted moisture. Mould spores can cause respiratory illnesses, so these signs require urgent attention. Check cupboards, under flooring, behind bath panels, and beneath tiles for hidden damp areas.
5. Check Outside Regularly
   Swimming pools, hot tubs, and irrigation systems are common leak sources. Track how often you top up your pool or hot tub. Boggy ground or pooling water on patios may also indicate a leak.

In many cases, leak detection and repair can be straightforward. Acting quickly can prevent expensive structural damage. However, sometimes the leak source is difficult to locate, leaving damp patches or mould without an obvious cause.

LeakDTech provides a specialist leak detection service using advanced infrared thermal imaging to scan walls, ceilings, and floors — allowing us to locate hidden leaks without invasive digging.

Try these tips, and if you discover a damp patch or pooling water without a clear source, contact our team. We’ll help you find and fix leaks fast, while helping conserve water for the future.

For information on how we can help if you suspect a leak, consult LeakDTech’s professionals now!