South West Water is encouraging customers across the region to carry out a simple check at home to identify hidden toilet leaks which could be wasting thousands of litres of water every year.
Leaky loos are one of the most common sources of water loss in the home, yet they often go unnoticed. Many toilet leaks are silent, allowing water to continuously trickle into the pan without residents realising.
A single leaking toilet can waste up to 400 litres of water a day, making it one of the biggest sources of household water waste and an important focus for water conservation.
With half of England, including the South West, being declared in drought by the Environment Agency following months of record dry and hot weather, South West Water is supporting customers to use water wisely wherever possible.
So far in 2026, South West Water has identified and repaired 636 leaking toilets across the region.
These repairs are saving an estimated 159,000 litres of water every day, equivalent to around 58 million litres of water a year.
Check for hidden leaks in four easy steps
To help reduce water waste, South West Water is encouraging households to carry out a simple toilet roll test to check for hidden toilet leaks:
- Place a few sheets of dry toilet paper against the back of the toilet pan.
- Leave it for a few minutes without flushing.
- Check whether the paper has become wet.
- If it has, your toilet may have a hidden leak.
If a leak is identified, customers can access step-by-step advice on fixing common toilet leaks through South West Water's website.
Megan Williams, Water Efficiency Delivery Manager at South West Water, said:
"Many toilet leaks are completely silent, meaning customers can be wasting large amounts of water without realising it.
"A leaking toilet can waste hundreds of litres of water every day, so taking a few minutes to carry out this simple check can make a big difference.
"By spotting and fixing hidden leaks, customers can help save water, reduce unnecessary waste and play their part in protecting precious drinking water resources across the South West."
For more information on carrying out the toilet roll test and fixing a leaking toilet, visit www.southwestwater.co.uk/about-us/blogs/how-to-fix-a-leaky-loo
DTCCA launches £9.3 million capital fund to create more education & training opportunities for young people
Exeter secures top 20 ranking in two leading UK university guides
Exeter residents urged to help stop illegal fly-tipping
Householders urged to return forms to ensure right to vote
Campaigners readying for next assault against potential monster 700-home plot
Ottery Town Council asks residents to Respect the Cemetery
Littleham Brook Pollution Update
Suppliers invited to find out more about opportunities with local councils
Councillors speak out about death threats and abuse
New Headlight peer support group launches in Sidmouth to support young people’s mental health
Community groups invited to apply for City Grant funding
CCTV appeal after Exeter assault
Heritage Open Days offers more chances to discover Exeter’s history
Three more years of climate and nature action celebrated in Exmouth
Residents urged to ‘Take No Chances’ during Gas Safety Week
Bascule Bridge lane reopens while Swing Bridge closure remains
