--- title: A 20-Minute DIY Check That Could Stop Thousands of Litres Going to Waste date: 2026-06-05T17:00:00+10:00 author: Walker Designs canonical_url: "https://www.orionproducts.com.au/news/a-20-minute-diy-check-that-could-stop-thousands-of-litres-going-to-waste" section: News --- 05 June 2026 # A 20-Minute DIY Check That Could Stop Thousands of Litres Going to Waste Water leaks often go unnoticed, quietly wasting thousands of litres each year. A dripping tap, a running toilet, or a small pipe leak may seem minor, but over time these issues can add up to significant water loss. The good news is that many common leaks can be detected with a quick inspection at home. A simple 20-minute DIY check can help identify hidden leaks early, allowing households to fix small problems before they turn into costly repairs or unnecessary water waste. [Blog](https://www.orionproducts.com.au/news/category/blog) [Water Conservation Series](https://www.orionproducts.com.au/news/category/water-conservation-series) ![Image025](https://www.orionproducts.com.au/volumes/images/blog/2026/April/World-Water-Series/_1200x628_crop_center-center_60_none/image025.jpg) ### Start with the Water Meter One of the easiest ways to detect hidden leaks is by checking the household water meter. First, ensure that all taps, appliances, and irrigation systems are turned off. Then observe the water meter reading. If the meter continues to move even when no water is being used, it may indicate a leak somewhere in the plumbing system. This quick test can help identify problems that may not be immediately visible. Regularly checking the water meter provides a simple way to monitor water usage and spot unusual changes before they become serious issues. ### Check Taps, Toilets, and Pipes After checking the meter, inspect common leak points around the home. Taps are often the most obvious place to start. A slow drip may seem harmless, but a leaking tap can waste thousands of litres of water over the course of a year. Toilets are another common source of hidden leaks. If water continues to run after flushing or the tank refills frequently without being used, there may be a problem with the internal valve or seal. It’s also worth checking visible pipes under sinks, around appliances, and near outdoor taps. Look for signs of moisture, corrosion, or small puddles that may indicate a leak. ### Fix Small Problems Before They Grow Many small leaks can be repaired quickly by replacing worn washers, tightening fittings, or adjusting toilet components. Addressing these issues early can prevent water loss and reduce the risk of larger plumbing problems later. Regular home inspections help maintain efficient water use and prevent unnecessary waste. Even a short check every few months can make a noticeable difference in reducing household water consumption. ## Key Takeaway A quick 20-minute leak check can help households identify hidden plumbing problems and prevent thousands of litres of water from being wasted each year. Reliable water management starts with dependable storage. Explore Australian-made Orion Tanks, designed to help capture, protect, and store water efficiently. [ View Orion’s water storage solutions ](https://www.orionproducts.com.au/water-tanks) [ ![Antarctica’s Hidden Lakes Beneath the Ice Sheet]() Prev post Antarctica’s Hidden Lakes Beneath the Ice Sheet ](https://www.orionproducts.com.au/news/antarcticas-hidden-lakes-beneath-the-ice-sheet) [ Next post Swap These Three Fixtures, Save Thousands of Litres a Year ![Swap These Three Fixtures, Save Thousands of Litres a Year]() ](https://www.orionproducts.com.au/news/swap-these-three-fixtures-save-thousands-of-litres-a-year)