The South West Water hidden toilet leaks campaign is encouraging households to check for unnoticed water waste as part of Water Saving Week 2026.
South West Water is sharing simple at-home tests to help customers identify leaking toilets, which can waste significant volumes of water if left undetected.
Hidden leaks can waste hundreds of litres per day
According to the water company, a typical leaking toilet can waste up to 400 litres of water each day. Because many leaks occur internally and produce little visible water, they often go unnoticed by households.
The South West Water hidden toilet leaks campaign aims to raise awareness of these small but persistent losses, which collectively contribute to pressure on water supplies and higher household consumption.
Identifying and repairing leaks can also reduce costs for customers on water meters while supporting wider water efficiency goals.
Simple tests to identify leaking toilets
The campaign includes guidance on easy ways to check for hidden leaks at home.
South West Water is providing free biodegradable “leaky loo” strips that dissolve or change colour when water movement is detected inside the toilet pan.
Customers can also carry out a similar check using toilet paper positioned beneath the toilet rim after the pan has fully dried. If the paper becomes wet without flushing, it may indicate a leak.
What the South West Water hidden toilet leaks campaign means for water efficiency
The South West Water hidden toilet leaks campaign reflects increasing focus across the water sector on reducing demand alongside improving infrastructure efficiency.
Utilities continue to invest in reducing leakage within distribution networks, but household leaks also represent a significant source of water loss.
According to the company, around 30% of water loss in the region comes from customer-owned pipework and household plumbing.
Demand management measures are becoming increasingly important as climate change affects rainfall patterns and increases pressure on water resources.
For more on water conservation and supply resilience, visit our Water Management coverage.
Water Saving Week focuses on long-term resilience
Water Saving Week, coordinated by Waterwise, promotes practical ways for households and businesses to reduce water consumption.
The campaign comes as utilities and environmental organisations continue to warn about the long-term impact of climate change, population growth and rising demand on water supplies.
Simple efficiency measures, including leak detection and reduced consumption, are increasingly being promoted as part of broader resilience strategies.
Further updates on water efficiency and infrastructure can be explored in our Drinking Water section.
