Check your in-ground irrigation system each spring before you turn it on, to make sure there’s no damage from frost or freezing during the winter. An irrigation system with a leak as small as 1/32 inch in diameter (about the thickness of a dime) can waste about 6,300 gallons of water (and a lot of money) each month.

Make sure your irrigation system is set properly so you’re not overwatering. Next, to find leaks, check out this video to find and repair your leaks.

Call in a professional if  necessary. As frustrating as it might be, sometimes you just can’t find the leak in your irrigation system on your own. Don’t worry though, because the WaterSense program has a list of partners who have passed a certification program focused on water efficiency. They’ll help you lock up that leak.

Figure out where your garden hose is leaking – is it from the faucet or is it actually leaking from the hose? Then stop the leak with these steps.

Find out if your pool is leaking if it seems like it’s losing water by the bucketful. The first step in finding a pool leak is to determine whether the water loss is actually from a leak or from evaporation (in which case, cover that pool when you’re not using it!). This simple bucket test will help you figure it out.

Learn more about swimming pool leaks with this swimming pool water loss calculator.

Do-it-yourself. If you’ve determined that your pool definitely has a leak and you’re in a do-it-yourself mood, here’s what you need to know about finding and fixing the leak.

If you have a hot tub, keep it covered so you don’t lose water to evaporation. If you think it’s leaking, these instructions will help you find and repair it so you can get back to maximum relaxation enjoyment.

Find and repair. If the fountain or pond in your peaceful outdoor retreat is in danger of being ruined because of a leak, there are steps you can take to find and repair  it and get your Zen back.

Think about your family’s water use. Here’s an easy way to see if you have a leak in your home: examine your winter water usage. In general, for a family of four, if your water use exceeds 12,000 gallons per month you might have a leak.

Check your water meter. Pick a time when no one needs to use the water for a while and check your water meter before and after a set time period (15 minutes to a couple of hours). If the meter does not read exactly the same, you probably have a leak.

Although it could be tough to see, you might have to find a leak between the water meter and the supply line. Never fear! There are steps you can take to find the leak.