Residents of Aberdeen Green may have noticed an increase in their water bill recently, especially in the aftermath of Winter Storm Enzo. When freezing weather strikes, the frigid temperatures can cause burst or cracked pipes in the home, underground, within the irrigation system or pool equipment and many other hidden places. If the increase doesn’t align with actual water usage, a water leak could be the culprit.

Fortunately, identifying and addressing a leak is a straightforward process that can save both water and money. Here’s how residents can check for water leaks and report them to West Harris County MUD 14, the MUD district for Aberdeen Green.

Step 1: Turn Off All Water-Using Equipment

Before diving into any investigation, it’s essential to ensure that all equipment in your home that uses water is turned off. This includes faucets, appliances, and anything else that may use water. Double-check that no water is being used inside or outside the house. This step is crucial, as it ensures the accuracy of the next steps in leak detection.

Step 2: Locate Your Water Meter

The water meter is a powerful tool for detecting leaks. For most Aberdeen Green residents, the water meter is typically located in a black, rectangular meter box on the easement near the street. Caution is advised when opening the box, as it may house insects, spiders, or even a snake. Once open, wipe off the face of the meter if needed for better visibility.

Step 3: Monitor the Low Flow Detector

Most water meters are equipped with a low flow detector, which can be key in detecting leaks. The low flow detector rotates clockwise when water is being used, and even slight movements can indicate a leak. To test this, closely observe the detector. If there is any movement even though all water-using equipment is off, it may signify a leak. The speed at which the detector moves can also indicate the size of the leak.

(Source: West Harris County MUD 14)

Step 4: Fixing the Leak

Once a leak is identified, the next step is to locate and fix the source of the leak. Even the smallest leaks, such as those measuring 1/16th of an inch, can waste over 24,000 gallons of water in a month. A dripping faucet, for example, can waste 3 gallons a day or over 1,000 gallons per year. Repairing leaks promptly can significantly reduce water waste and avoid higher water bills.

Some of the most common sources of water leaks include:

• Sprinkler Systems: Leaking sprinkler systems are often responsible for unnoticed water waste.
• Toilets: Toilets can leak water into the bowl even when not in use. A simple test using food coloring can help identify a leaking toilet. Add a few drops of food coloring into the toilet tank, wait a few minutes, and check for any color in the bowl.
• Faucets: A leaking faucet can waste a surprising amount of water over time.

For more challenging leaks, residents may need to call a plumber, but in some cases, the issues can be easily fixed without professional help. If the leak is outdoors, walking along the trench line between the water meter and the house, looking for “squishy” areas or unusually green patches of grass, may help pinpoint the source.

Step 5: Reporting Water Leaks to West Harris County MUD 14

Once a leak is detected and repaired, or if the issue requires external assistance, Aberdeen Green residents should report any leaks to West Harris County MUD 14. For smaller leaks or non-emergency service issues, residents can fill out the report-a-water-leak form. West Harris County MUD 14 will review the report and respond promptly.

In the case of an emergency water leak, residents should immediately contact the 24-hour service line at 281-367-5511 to receive immediate assistance.

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Preventative Measures

In addition to addressing leaks, Aberdeen Green residents should also consider taking preventative measures to reduce the risk of future leaks. For example, regular inspections of appliances, faucets, and sprinkler systems can identify potential problems before they lead to excessive water waste. Regularly checking the water meter, especially after storms like Winter Storm Enzo, can help residents stay on top of any unnoticed leaks.

By following these simple steps, Aberdeen Green residents can protect both their homes and the environment from unnecessary water waste, while also saving money on their water bills.

By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News 

Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.