To help consumers save water and improve water efficiency in the home, the District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority (DC Water) encourages citizens to find and fix household water leaks during “Fix a Leak Week,” March 12-18, 2012. Sponsored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agencys (EPA’s) WaterSense® program, this week-long celebration is an annual reminder to consumers to check their plumbing fixtures and irrigation systems for leaks.

“DC Water is proud to partner with the EPA’s WaterSense® program to raise awareness about water leaks and provide water-efficient tips to help our customers save water and money,” said DC Water General Manager George S. Hawkins. “Repairing leaks as soon as they are identified is the best way to reduce water waste and preserve our water supply. Water is a precious, life-giving resource that should be conserved and used wisely.”

The EPA estimates that in the average home more than 10,000 gallons of water is wasted each year due to household leaks. Retrofitting your home with WaterSense labeled fixtures and other high-efficient appliances can help eliminate most common household leaks. These products use about 20 percent less water and perform at least as well as standard models.

At a special Fix a Leak Week event on Wednesday, March 14 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., DC Water representatives will distribute water conservation information and demonstrate how to install water-efficient plumbing fixtures. The event will be held at the Frank W. Reeves Municipal Center, 2000 14th Street, NW. DC Water’s mascot, Wendy the Water Drop, will also make a special appearance.

For more water-saving tips and information, consumers can visit DC Water’s Facebook and Twitter pages.