The first step in looking for hidden leaks is to turn off all your faucets, don't flush your toilets, and turn off anything else that uses water. Find your water meter and take a reading. Then wait a half hour or so and   take another meter reading. If the reading has changed there is a very good chance you have a leak somewhere.

 Here are some possible areas to check for leaks and excessive water usage:

• Check all your faucets for those pesky slow leaks, these could turn into major problems if left unattended.
• Make sure your toilets are not running contiunusly.
• If you have a pool, check all the piping connections for leaks and wear items
• What is the condition of your water heater? Is the bottom rusted?
• What condition is your ice maker in? Consider turning it off while you're gone
• Have you checked the hoses and water connections to your washer lately?

• Are you watering the street instead of your grass?
• Is any of your landscaping blocking the heads?
• Are your heads tilted?
• Are your heads positioned correctly, too low or to high, you don't want the lawn care service cutting them off.
• Do you have a drawing of the system posted along with the schedule for watering and your sprinkler contractor's phone number?
• Install fresh batteries if your system has a battery power back up so you don't lose your programming.
• Tell your neighbors where your main water shut off is.