Scottsdale Warns Hidden Irrigation Leaks Could Be Driving Up Water Bills

SCOTTSDALE, AZ — Scottsdale is reminding residents that some of the biggest water leaks on their property may be hiding in plain sight.

The city is encouraging homeowners to check their outdoor irrigation systems for leaks and take advantage of free city services designed to cut water waste.

Landscape irrigation systems can quietly lose water underground or blend into the yard, running up utility bills without homeowners ever noticing.

The signs to watch for include soggy or unusually dark spots in the yard, patches of grass that are greener than the rest, and a sudden spike in a water bill.

Even small leaks can add up to thousands of gallons lost over time, city officials said.

Scottsdale offers several free tools to help residents track down and fix the problem. The city's WaterSmart portal provides leak alerts using hourly water use data, and residents can request a free Outdoor Water Efficiency Check to learn how to schedule an irrigation timer and improve system efficiency.

The city noted the service is popular and books up fast. Residents can schedule one by calling 480-312-5650.

The city also offers workshops on efficient irrigation techniques and controller programming, along with online publications about finding leaks and watering landscapes.

Residents who spot water flowing onto a street that isn't coming from their property can report it through the city's ScottsdaleEZ portal, along with a photo if possible.

More information on leak alerts, workshops and publications is available at ScottsdaleAZ.gov.