DC Water Celebrates "Fix a Leak Week," March 14-20

March 10, 2011

Finding and fixing household leaks can help save thousands of gallons of water a year. Because minor water leaks account for more than 1 trillion gallons of water wasted nationwide each year, the District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority (DC Water) encourages consumers to check their homes and irrigation systems for leaks during “Fix a Leak Week,” March 14-20, 2011. Fix a Leak Week is sponsored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) WaterSense® program.

According to the EPA, 10 percent of homes have leaks that waste 90 gallons or more per day. Some of the more common types of household leaks include worn toilet flappers, dripping faucets, and leaking showerheads. By finding and fixing simple water leaks, consumers can help save water, reduce their utility bill and improve water efficiency in the home.

“Our customers are looking for ways to save on their utility bills during these difficult economic times,” said DC Water General Manager George S. Hawkins. “Repairing water leaks is a great way to save water and money too,” “We are proud to partner with EPA’s WaterSense program to promote Fix a Leak Week and remind consumers to fix household leaks. Water is a life-sustaining resource that shouldn’t be wasted, but conserved and used wisely.”

During the week-long celebration, consumers can visit DC Water’s Facebook and Twitter pages for useful water-saving tips and to learn more about WaterSense-labeled products. These products use about 20 percent less water and perform at least as well as standard models. Most common leaks can be eliminated by retrofitting homes with WaterSense-labeled fixtures and other high-efficient appliances.

DC Water will also host two interactive water conservation events at local senior wellness centers this week. Representatives will be at the Ward 1 Senior Wellness Center, 3531 Georgia Avenue, NW from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, March 16 and from 10 a.m. to noon on Friday, March 18 at the Congress Heights Senior Wellness Center, 3500 Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue, SE.

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