Although the amount can vary depending on the type of drip, a leaky faucet can be a huge water waster! In fact, some estimates show that a faucet that is dripping may waste 1-2 gallons per day or 30-60 gallons per month!
A leaky faucet adds dollars to the household water bill and is also a problem for the environment. This is especially true when considering how many households across cities, towns, and the nation are losing gallons of water each week.
The EPA estimates that fixing leaks could save a trillion gallons of water or more each year.
National Fix a Leak Week is here to act as a reminder that it’s time to either get out the toolbox or call a plumber because that little drip can turn into something really big over time!
History of National Fix a Leak Week
National Fix a Leak Week has been around since 2009, when it was started by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) WaterSense program in the United States.
The idea behind the event was to promote better care for the environment by encouraging people to waste less water, particularly through links in sinks, bathtubs, outdoor hoses, and other leaks.
Since its introduction through the EPA, various states throughout the US have adopted National Fix a Leak Week and made it an important part of their own observances.
How to Celebrate National Fix a Leak Week
Fix A Leak
Of course, the most popular way to celebrate this event is to go ahead and get that leak fixed. Drippy nozzle in the shower?
Leaky faucet in the bathtub? Toilet that runs constantly? All of these types of leaks can add up pretty quickly, and this is the week to get them fixed!
Those who are a bit handy might be able to fix a leak themselves in just a few steps. And sometimes, without even making a trip to the hardware store! Others might need to get a small replacement part, such as a washer, an O-ring, or a gasket.
Folks who don’t have tools or feel particularly handy can either call a friend who does or schedule an appointment for a plumber to come out.
This will save money in the long run and play a small part in saving the environment, too.
Get the Facts About Leaks
Not sure what the big deal is about fixing a leak? Learn – and share — some of these important facts about leaks to help raise awareness and encourage people toward action:
10% of homes have leaks that waste 90 gallons or more per day
Households use more water in the summer than in winter – average winter water use for a family of four should be no more than 12,000 gallons per month
Retrofitting a house with water-efficient toilets could save a family up to $2400 per year
A leaky faucet that drips one time per second leaks 3,000 gallons/year – enough to take more than 180 showers
Check out some other interesting events to celebrate along the lines of National Fix a Leak Week, including Energy Saving Week in January, World Plumbing Day in March, and World Toilet Day in November.
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