The Board of Water Supply, in partnership with City Mill, will launch its 17th annual Detect-A-Leak week today.

The public-education program is aimed at reminding Hawai'i residents to find and fix leaks in their homes.

Leaky toilets cause about 80 percent of high water bills, according to the Board of Water Supply.

A single leaky toilet could waste up to 172,800 gallons of water in one month, and add $576 in water charges.

"You can have a small toilet leak, but it could cost you hundreds of dollars on your water and sewer bill," said Board of Water Supply spokeswoman Su Shin. Leaks "aren't something you think about all the time ... But it's important to remind people to check for leaks regularly."

As part of the campaign, the Board of Water Supply and City Mill are distributing free dye tablets to check for toilet leaks.

Consumers are also encouraged to check for leaks in faucets, pipes and other water fixtures in and around their homes.

"Leak detection is truly a win-win," said Clifford Lum, Board of Water Supply manager and chief engineer. "Finding and fixing leaks helps our customers save money on their water and sewer bills, but most importantly, it helps preserve our limited water supply."

Reach Catherine E. Toth at ctoth@honoluluadvertiser.com.