Stop taps control the water that flows onto a private property and can be found next to the water meter, which is usually located near a meter box underground, or above-ground near the front boundary of a property.
Unitywater Executive Manager Customer Delivery, Rhett Duncan, said turning off the stop tap was a simple way customers could prevent leaks while they’re away from home.
“One of our customers with a digital water meter was away on holidays when we noticed a spike in water usage at her property,” he said.
“We were able to notify her and a running toilet was the cause of the leak. If this had not been picked up, it would have cost her an extra $54 a day on her bill.
“To avoid coming home to an unwanted surprise and the costs associated with leaks, we recommend turning off your stop tap.”
Mr Duncan said a property’s stop tap could be turned off by turning the tap or lever clockwise until it can’t be turned anymore. It may take a few turns but shouldn’t need excessive force.
More holiday tips:
1. Putting on a delicious spread for friends and family? Opt to empty fats and oils into the bin, rather than down the sink, to avoid blockages in your private plumbing.
2. Indulging in prawns this festive season? Bin the shells, don’t flush them down the toilet!
3. Bring your reusable water bottle when you’re out and about and fill up at one of our 60 free water refill stations in Moreton Bay, Noosa or the Sunshine Coast. See where they’re located: www.unitywater.com/water-refill-stations
4. Prepare for water outages (it’s storm season too!), and store five litres of water per person in a jerry can. This will be enough to cover one day of bathing, keeping hydrated and washing up.
More storm season tips: www.unitywater.com/wetweather
