Fix a Leak Week, an annual event hosted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for its WaterSense program, educates the public on identifying and fixing common leaks. Running from March 19 – 25, the week boosts water conservation efforts while helping you lower your water bill.
The EPA has some quick tips to identify leaks in your home:
- Check your water meter before and after a two-hour period when no water is used. If the meter changes, you probably have a leak.
- If you suspect your toilet is leaking, add a few drops of food coloring to the tank. If there is color in the bowl after 10 minutes, you know you have a leak.
- Periodically check the toilet flapper – the rubber plug that is pulled up when a toilet is flushed. If the flapper does not securely plug the hole, consider buying a new one.
- Check your showerhead and replace it or secure its seam with Teflon tape if you discover dripping.
- Leaky faucets are often caused by a need to replace the rubber washer on the turn handle.
Stay vigilant and look for common signs. Not only are you keeping your water bill down, but you are also helping important water conservation efforts.