Detecting Water Leaks

With water restrictions continuing in some towns across the Shire and dry conditions still prevalent, it is as important as ever to conserve water and report any water leaks or issues. 

“Council’s water network spans over 170km with over 3,300 water connections Shire wide and a large scheduled program of water main replacement works every year to ensure our communities have potable water,” said Warrumbungle Shire Council Mayor, Councillor Ambrose Doolan. “With the weather forecast remaining dry we need the community’s help to ensure our water is being conserved and any issues that may arise are reported.” 

A lot of Council’s pipes are located within the roads around town, this makes them subject to heavy loads like trucks and cars. Over time these loads can cause the pipes to develop small cracks which cause water to leak from them. In addition to this, when the ground gets wet, the soil will expand and contract, again over time this cycle impacts the integrity of the pipes causing them to leak. 

Council’s Warrumbungle Water Team operates and maintains Council’s water and sewerage pipes across the Shire and always have staff available to respond to issues to make sure that you will always have water supplied. 

There are a number of signs to watch out for with a water leak including:
1. An isolated patch of green grass. 
2. Soggy or saturated ground that doesn’t dry up.
3. Water coming out of the ground.
4. Puddles in the road if there hasn’t been any rain.
5. No or low water pressure in your home.
 
“Some of these signs may be caused by other things like planned maintenance, natural springs or a leak on a property owner’s side of the water meter. Council is responsible for the pipes up to and including the water meter,” Cr Doolan explained.

If you believe you have an issue after the water meter call a licenced plumber to assist you. If there is an issue before the water meter, contact Council on (02) 6849 2000. Calls regarding water are urgent matters, someone will answer your call 24/7 and Council staff will come and investigate the issue. 

For more information on Water Restrictions across the Shire visit Council’s website under the Water Restriction Information tab. 

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Last Updated: 12 Mar 2024