Show All Answers

1. What is wrong with my toilet?

Toilet leaks can included various signs and sounds. Find out what is wrong with your toilet with Fluidmaster's online troubleshooting guide with live chat assistance. Click here: https://www.fluidmaster.com/support/

2. What size toilet flapper do I have?

The flapper valve is what regulates water to the bowl. It is important that flappers are sized appropriately to maintain a proper seal needed for the toilet to both flush properly and control the flow of water to the bowl. Most toilet flappers are either a 2" or a 3" depending on the size of the drain opening from the tank to the bowl. When choosing a replacement flapper you will have to know what you currently have:

Flapper Style: Flexible Rubber or Solid Plastic Frame

Size: Either 2" or 3" (pre-1994 toilets are usually 2")

Flushing Capacity: 5 , 3.5 , 1.6 , or 1.28 gallon per flush toilet

READ THE FULL FLUIDMASTER ARTICLE (CLICK HERE)

3. How do I replace a toilet fill valve?

Toilet component replacements are commonly done by homeowners themselves. Check out this video on the steps to replacing a toilet fill valve in about 10 mins. with the proper parts. It may just give you the courage to try this at home. If you need assistance with this repair Fluidmaster has an online troubleshooting guide and live chat assistance waiting for you on weekdays from 5:30 am to 5:00 pm. at https://www.fluidmaster.com/support/.

4. How do I fix a leaky or dripping double handled faucet?

Check out this DIY video on how to fix a leaky or dripping double handled faucet. 

5. How do I replace a faucet aerator?

Check out this DIY video on how to replace your faucet aerator.

6. How do I fix a leaky bathtub faucet?

Check out this helpful DIY video on how to fix a leaky bathtub faucet.

7. What is a water pressure regulator?

A water pressure regulator is a safety feature designed to prevent the water pressure inside your home from climbing too high or falling too low. Building codes require builders to install a water pressure regulator on homes when the street mainline pressure exceeds 80 psi (pounds per square inch). Most regulators are pre-set by manufacturers at 45 to 60 psi, which is the optimal pressure.

8. Where is the pressure regulator located?

The water pressure regulator is a bell shaped device often located on the main line inlet pipe, usually near the house shut-off valve (customer valve) outside the home. If you have one it is very important to know where it is and how to check it.

9. How do I adjust my pressure regulator?

Most water pressure regulators have an adjustment nut that can be used to increase or decrease the water pressure. Incorrectly adjusting the regulator could cause water pressure to become too high or too low. Unfortunately, SMWD is unable to adjust pressure regulators because they are considered to be the homeowner’s private property. If an adjustment cannot be made to your regulator, it may need to be replaced. You may want to contact a local plumbing supply store or a plumbing professional for assistance.

10. How do I reset/program my sprinkler timer (outdoor watering)?

Over 50% of a home’s water use occurs outdoors, primarily for irrigation.  How often and long you water plants affects both plant health and your water bill.  To find resources on what type of sprinkler timer you have and how to control it, use this great website:

http://www.resetyourcontroller.com

Additional information on outdoor watering can be found on our site:  www.smwd.com/watering

11. Pool / Spa DIY Leak Check

YouTube Video "How Do I Find an In-Ground Pool Leak?"

Here are simple tips for pools, spa and hot tub owners to save water and money.

Pool Water Saving Tips

• Install a pool cover to reduce water evaporation by as much as 60%.
• Shut off waterfalls, fountains, and other water features to reduce water loss and evaporation.
• Check the pool for leaks. Contact your pool service professional for guidance. See the video below for a DIY leak check.
• Minimize splashing or lower the pool’s water level to reduce "splashout."
• Plug the overflow line when the pool is in use.
• Replace sand and DE filters with cartridge filters that do not require backwashing.
• Keep your pool clean to reduce frequency of backwashing.
• If your pool is heated, reduce the water temperature to reduce evaporation. This saves energy too!

Hot Tub and Spa Water Savings Tips

• Keep it covered.
• Maintain the chemicals to extend water life.
• Check the equipment for leaks.
• Drain only when absolutely necessary.
• Check with your pool service professional for new technology that helps keep the water clean and reduce the need to drain the spa.
• If you drain your spa, after dechlorinating the water, reuse the water to irrigate plants and landscaping.

Water Savings Calculator for Pools

The District has created an easy calculator for you to figure out if your pool and decking design will use less water than conventional landscaping.