The Lewiston Orchards Irrigation District is responsible for repairing leaks on its water mains. If there is a leak on the patron’s side of the meter can, then it is their responsibility to make the repairs.
POSSIBLE LEAK NOTIFICATION
If you find a leak notification left by LOID…
When the meter reader recorded your domestic meter reading, it was higher then usual. From time to time that high reading is a result of a domestic water leak. The leak notification packet from LOID contains toilet dye tablets and a copy of the WATER LEAK ADJUSTMENT REQUEST FORM.
Most leaks are easy to find, but some go undetected. Some things you might want to consider:
1. Listen and look for running water.
2. Toilets – Listen for running water. Use the dye tablets as directed. If you want to test your toilet without dye tablets, use food coloring. Put a few drops of food coloring into the tank. If color shows up in the bowl within 30 minutes, the valve or support assembly may need replaced. Check the flush handle, is it sticking in the flush position?
3. Faucets, bathtub, showers – Replace warn gaskets and washers.
4. Water Heater – Replace the pressure and temperature valve, if leaking.
5. Dishwasher/ clothes washer – Look for water drips or stains underneath or in the back of the machine.
6. Outside domestic faucets – Replace worn gaskets and washers. To protect against freezing, always disconnect hoses and shut inside valves to outside faucets during the winter months.
If you need additional assistance, please consult with a qualified plumber to avoid damage to your plumbing system.
LEAKY TOILETS
It isn’t always easy to tell if your toilet is leaking. Most leaks are easy to fix, while others require a plumber or other professional contractor.
Lewiston Orchards Irrigation District has toilet leak detection tablets available to patrons at no charge. Follow the directions on the back of the leak detection tablets.
No toilet dye tablets? Put a few drops of food coloring into the tank. If color shows up in the bowl within 15 to 30 minutes, the valve or support assembly may need to be replaced.
See if the ball valve drops squarely into the drain opening. If not, clean it out or replace the ball valve if it is worn.
Check the flush handle to see if it is stuck in the flush position.
Bend the float arm to lower the water level to at least one-half inch below the top of the overflow tube.
Replace the overflow tube if it has holes below the water level.
Note: Lewiston Orchards Irrigation District does not make recommendations to other professional trades, please refer to your phone directory for listings.
If you have a leak on your domestic side the Lewiston Orchards Irrigation District has a leak adjustment policy.
LEAKY FAUCETS
Even a small leak can waste significant amounts a water. Small leaks can waste up to 3 gallons of water each day and permanently create water spots and stains in the base of your sink.
Faucets may look different, they all have the same basic parts and are put together in the same order. Faucets usually leak because of old gaskets or O-rings and corroded valve seats.
Check for Loose Nuts
If water is leaking around the packing nut area or at the base of the handle, your connection may be loose. Use an adjustable wrench and tighten the nut located just below the handle. In some faucets the nut is located inside the handle and you’ll have to remove the handle to reveal the faucet’s hardware.
LEAK ADJUSTMENT POLICY
Click here to review the policy. Contact the LOID office to speak with the Billing Clerk at (208) 746-8235 to see if your property qualifies for a leak adjustment.