Water damage is one of the most frequent and expensive disasters homeowners face, costing billions each year. If your water bill has been unusually high, you might have an outdoor leak. A quick way to check is by monitoring your water meter’s leak indicator—if it’s moving while water is off, there’s likely a hidden leak.

During summer, outdoor irrigation often accounts for more water use than anything inside the home. While saving water indoors helps, the biggest impact comes from fixing outdoor inefficiencies. In fact, outdoor water use makes up over 30% of a household’s water usage—and in dry climates, that number can reach 60%. Shockingly, up to 50% of that water is wasted due to wind, evaporation, and runoff caused by outdated or poorly maintained irrigation systems. An automatic system that’s not maintained can waste up to 25,000 gallons per year.

Common Outdoor Leak Sources

A leaking outdoor faucet isn’t just a nuisance—it can damage your home’s exterior and even leak into basement windows. Here are a few common causes:

Wear and Tear: Over time, washers and seals degrade, causing leaks.
Frozen or Damaged Pipes: Water expands when frozen, potentially cracking pipes. Warning signs include low flow or strange smells.
Clogged Pipes: Mineral buildup or debris can block water flow, leading to leaks—even if the faucet is off.

How to Prevent Basement Water Seepage

Water pooling in your yard can easily seep into your basement. To minimize this risk:

Reseal foundation cracks or basement walls with water sealant.
Address water issues early if you notice seepage after rain for the first time.

Safeguard Your Belongings

Store items—especially seasonal or bulk belongings—in waterproof containers and off the floor in basements or attics. This reduces the risk of damage from leaks or backups.

Smart Ways to Cut Outdoor Water Use

Prevent damage and lower your bill by conserving water outdoors:

Replace water-hungry turf with drought-tolerant plants or xeriscaping.
Fix leaks and upgrade your irrigation system.
Install rainwater harvesting or greywater systems to reuse water efficiently.

Trusted Help for Water Damage in Lake Forest

If you experience water damage, acting fast is crucial. Flood Pro has over 30 years of experience helping Mission Viejo homeowners recover from water disasters. Their IICRC-certified technicians are available 24/7 to assess, dry, and restore your property quickly and professionally.

Call Flood Pro for a free home inspection or emergency water damage restoration any time disaster strikes.

Our water damage restoration technicians are trained and certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). They will quickly assess the situation to determine the fastest way of drying your property.

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