Begin by checking for any of the following signs within the building that may indicate a leak:
- Sound of water running
- Water running into a drain
- Water pooling on the ground
- Water-soaked material (drywall, carpet)
If you notice any of these signs, it may mean there is a leak associated with the building’s water meter. Check the following common areas where leaks can occur:
- Janitor's closet or maintenance rooms
- Bathroom (toilet, sink, shower)
- Ice machines
- Fire hydrant
- Pump room
- Indoor garden center
If you still are unable to find the leak, walk the property and inspect any endpoint that consumes or possibly consumes water. Use the following Building Leak Location Checklist as a guide.
Building Leak Location Checklist
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Restrooms – check toilets, urinals, faucets. Verify there are no issues with the automatic flush toilets or automatic aerators.
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Breakroom –check ice machines, sinks, water coolers, etc.
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Ice machine – slow leaks
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Water fountains – slow leaks
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Fire riser room – slow leaks
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Pump room – slow leaks
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Janitor’s closet and mop sinks
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Outside fire riser connections
- Indoor garden center – including hose bibs and connections
Mechanical equipment within the building
Walk the mechanical rooms and utility closets and inspect the following elements:
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Cooling tower – inspect the makeup valve, float valve, and blowdown line
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Boilers and chillers – inspect makeup line
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Closed looped systems
- Reverse osmosis system