Leak Checkers here to help reduce water waste

Power and Water’s Living Water Smart Leak Checkers will be in Katherine next week to detect potential leaks in residential homes.

Over the past three years, the award winning Community Leak Program has identified over 1,375 potential leaks in Katherine homes and businesses.

Jethro Laidlaw, Power and Water’s Living Water Smart Program Manager praised the Katherine community on becoming so much more aware of the importance of valuing water, however is still concerned about the amount of water waste through unidentified leaks.

“Since the program started in 2017, we have found more leaks than expected. Around one in five homes had a leak initially, which reduced to one in eight in 2019. This is a good result, but there is still more we can do to find and fix leaks.

“Last year the most significant leak found was a massive 2,890,000 litres a year, which would cost over $5,600 if left unfixed,” Mr Laidlaw said.

Over the next two weeks our leak checkers will re-visit all Katherine homes to check the water meters for signs of leaks, including where leaks were previously found to check that they haven’t recurred.

The Living Water Smart team will also be visiting some larger businesses and organisations where leaks have been identified and helping them with their water management plans.

“The Katherine community must be commended for demonstrating their commitment to save water.  Thank you and please keep it up - we all need to continue working together, as the more water we save, the less stress there is on our water supply.”

If leaks are found at properties, leak checkers will leave a card in the mailbox and details about the $200 Leak Find and Fix rebate that is available through local plumbers registered with the program. Residents are encouraged to access this program again and have these leaks fixed.

Since the program has been running, over 1400 residents have taken advantage of a $200 Leak Find and Fix rebate to locate and repair leaks.

“Keep an eye out for our friendly leak checkers on the street and feel free to ask them more about the Leak Program and rebate”.

For a list of registered plumbers and their contact details or to find out more about the Community Leak Program please go to katherinelivingwatersmart.com.au.

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