Troubleshooting Leaks
Please note that the City does not provide service calls for leaks. Residents are required to maintain appliances/ systems in their own property.
The City of St. Albert provides helpful information about troubleshooting leaks.
Toilets
To test your toilet
- Drop a dye tablet (available at Utility Services in City Hall) or food colouring into your toilet tank.
- Wait 5-15 minutes.
- If the dye appears in your toilet bowl, the toilet is running, and you have a leak.
- Review troubleshooting & repair techniques.
Repair Your Toilet
Toilet leaks are usually easy and inexpensive to repair. A local hardware store can help you by suggesting ways you can fix leaks or replace fixtures. Or call your local plumber.
You can also adjust several components in your toilet, which may also reduce leaks:
- Adjusting the float ball or float rod to be higher or lower
- Adjusting the chain, or ensuring it is not tangled
Shut Off Your Toilet
If you are unable to repair a toilet as recommended above, shutting the water service to a toilet off will temporarily stop the leak until the toilet can be fully repaired.
The toilet shut off valve is typically located near the base, behind the toilet, and will shut off water to the toilet only.
Example toilet shut-off valve
How Much Water Does a Leaky Toilet Waste?
This simulation by Epcor shows how much water a toilet can use if a leak occurs and goes undetected.
Epcor is a utility provider for the Edmonton capital region.
Irrigation Systems
Irrigation systems use a tremendous amount of water. Properly setting the timing (evening), the duration (amount) of watering and monitoring your irrigation system properly will reduce the amount of water used. Ensure to winterize your system annually. For more information, refer to St. Albert Water Conservation Bylaw 22/2015.
Outside Taps
Ensure outside taps are firmly turned off when not in use and remove garden hoses before freeze up.
Water Softener
Ensure your water softener is regularly serviced and functioning properly.
Humidifier on Furnace
Improperly set needle valve for humidifier on furnaces results in unnecessary water going straight to the drain.
Other Sources
While the most common sources of leaks are listed, any system or appliance that has a connection to a water line can fail and leak.
Vacant Dwellings
It is recommended residents shut the water off at the master shut off value if they are going to be away for several days, or if the dwelling is vacant.
The master shut-off value is generally located in the basement, just before the water meter. Once the water is shut off, turn on a faucet to ensure the water is turned off.
Example Master Shut-Off Valve
Related Pages
Last edited: January 24, 2024