Thursday, March 3, 2016

Fix a Leak Week (March 14 - 20, 2016)

Fix a Leak Week is approaching! This is a great reminder for people to check their household fixtures for leaks. EPA estimates that household leaks can waste more than 1 trillion gallons of water annually nationwide.
Start checking for leaks by reading your water meter. Read your water meter before and after 2-hour period when no water is being used. If the meter changes at all, you probably have a leak.

There was a case in Superior last year where the water meter wasn't read for over a year. When it finally was read, the property owner found out a toilet was running in the basement for about year. Their water and sewage bills were for using close to 800,000 gallons of water in one month!!

Things to check for:
  • Dripping faucets and showerheads - ensure tight connections to prevent leaks
  • Toilets - over time the rubber part of a toilet flapper decays and may need to be replaced 
  • Irrigation systems should be checked each spring before use 
  • Outdoor spigots and garden hose
If fixtures need to be replaced, look for WaterSense labeled models.
For more information on Fix a Leak visit these websites:
     Wi DNR Fix a Leak Week
     EPA Fix a Leak