My water usage has increased and seems too high, what is the problem?
Troubleshooting suggestions are below for common reasons for high water use:

Check all toilets for leaks
Even if you don’t hear water running, it does not mean the toilet isn’t leaking. One way to check if there is a leak between the bowl and the tank is to place a few drops of food coloring into the tank; then, wait several minutes to see if the dye enters the bowl. If it does, you have a leak.

Check faucets and shower heads for leaks.

Check proper operation of water softener to make sure it isn’t running too often, or it isn’t running continuously.

Check your meter reading
If you have a water softener or an irrigation system, make sure neither system is set to run that night and read the meter before you go to bed. The next morning before any water is used inside or outside, read the meter again. If the reading increased, you have a leak.

Do a five gallon bucket test
Read the meter, then fill a five gallon bucket. After filling the 5 gallon bucket, read the meter again. If it moves five gallons, the meter is reading accurately.

Show All Answers

1. Is discolored water a health hazard?
2. When are water restrictions in effect?
3. What should I do if there is a sewer blockage or backup?
4. How do I prevent a sewer backup or blockage?
5. What part of the water and sanitary sewer system does the City of Burnsville own?
6. What part of the water and sanitary sewer system do I own?
7. Water is leaking below the meter, will the city pay to repair it?
8. My water pressure seems too low, how do I correct the issue?
9. My water pressure seems too high, how do I correct it?
10. Will the City come to my home and test my water pressure?
11. Do I need a Pressure Reducing/Regulating Valve (PRV)?
12. Will the City test my water?
13. Where can I have my water tested?
14. Will the city install/reinstall my water meter?
15. My water meter is leaking, will the city send someone to fix it?
16. Is there a fee to turn my water off/on to make repairs?
17. I need my water shut off. Will the City come turn it off today?
18. My water usage has increased and seems too high, what is the problem?
19. When can I water my lawn?