WASHINGTON — In conjunction with its WaterSense partnership program, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is sponsoring Fix a Leak Week March 16-22 to educate the public about the wastefulness of leaks, according to a press release.
The average American family could waste more than 10,000 gallons of water because of leaks every year, noted the release. Leaks can increase a water bill by 10 percent.
The release offered three steps to take concerning leaks.
- Check the water meter before and after a two-hour period of no water use. A leak could be present if the number changes.
- Twist a wrench to repair connections in pipes and fixtures. Pipe tape can help seal hose connections and fixtures.
- Replace old and inefficient fixtures. WaterSense-labeled models use at least 20 percent less water.
“Fixing household leaks is not only an important way to conserve water, but it is a simple way that American families can reduce energy use and lower utility bills,” said Ken Kopocis, deputy assistant administrator for water at EPA.
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Several cities around the U.S. are supporting water conservation efforts, reported the release. Cincinnati Reds and Cleveland Indians fans whose water bills show a decrease over 2014 will receive free spring training tickets through a program with the city of Goodyear, Arizona.
Citrus County Utilities in Florida is sponsoring “Schedule a Specialist” to encourage customers to check for leaks. Customers can receive a $150 rebate for WaterSense-labeled irrigation controllers, stated the release. Other places with water-related initiatives include Sacramento, California; Fort Worth, Texas; and New Mexico.
Click here to learn more about Fix a Leak Week.