How to Report a Water Leak

A water leak can be caused by corrosion of water lines, damage to water lines from digging, and extremely cold weather can freeze and rupture water lines. When a water leak has been discovered there are some things you can do.

First, try to determine location of the leak, whether the leak is inside or outside your home.

Second, shut off any valves that will stop the water flow to the affected area.

You can report a water leak by calling:

573.364.1572 — During normal business hours 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

573.364.2195 — After Hours — Serviceman on duty 24 hours every day

How Do I Know If I Have a Water Leak?

If you suspect a water leak look for these indicators:

• high water consumption on your monthly statement
• you can hear running water
• wet area in lawn
• running toilet
• leak indicator on meter spinning

All of the newer RMU water meters contain a leak indicator, such as a small red triangle or round black dial in the center of the meter that turns when water is being used.

Leak Indicator

Meter Reading

 

Should the leak indicator turn when no water is being used, this indicates that a leak exists in your plumbing system. If the leak indicator shows no indication of movement, to determine if a leak exists, read all the numbers on the water meter and make a note or drawing of the meter face and where all meter dials are located. Do not use any water on the premises for at least 6 to 8 hours. Next, re-read the meter to see if the dials or numbers have moved. If movement has occurred, you may have a leak.

Experience has shown that many high consumption bills are due to a leaking toilet. To easily check if a toilet has a leak, perform a dye test. Place a dye tablet or several drops of food coloring in the tank of the toilet but DO NOT FLUSH. FREE dye tablets are available at the RMU Business Office. Let stand for 30 minutes. Now check the toilet bowl. If the coloring has now appeared in the bowl, your toilet “flapper” valve needs replacement. If no color appears, you most likely do not have a leak. Also check the water level in the tank. It should be at least one inch (1″) below the top of the overflow pipe. If less than one inch (1″) adjust the ball float and recheck water level.

If you have determined that the water leak is not coming from your service line or if you suspect that the leak may be coming from one of RMU’s mains please contact RMU.