National Fix a Leak Week takes place during the third week in March. It takes place from March 10 to 16 this year. It is an excellent opportunity to inspect your home for easy-to-repair leaks. Did you know that every year, residential leaks waste about one trillion gallons of water across the United States? Quite amazing, right? This is the week to track down and address those leaks.
History of National Fix a Leak Week
National Fix a Leak Week serves as an important reminder of the need for water conservation and environmental protection. The Fix a Leak Week public awareness campaign was created by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (E.P.A.) WaterSense Program in 2009 to urge people to locate and fix leaks in their homes and yards. National Fix a Leak Week events were held in 26 locations across the country by 2010. Some communities provided free leak-identification workshops, while others distributed leak detection kits to residents.
Over 10,000 gallons are wasted by the average household leak annually, and about 10% of households with water leaks waste a daily average of 90 gallons. Some common culprits include faulty toilet flappers, leaking valves, and dripping faucets. These leaks can be easy to address and require few hardware and tools. Fixing these leaks can help homeowners reduce their water bills by 10%.
To find leaks around the house, you need to investigate if you have leaks and track the source. Colder months like January and February are the prime time to pay attention to your water usage. A family of four should not be using more than 12,000 gallons monthly.
You should also be checking your water meter in two-hour intervals when there is no water usage. If there are changes in the meter readings, you have a leak somewhere. Toilet leaks can be detected by adding food coloring into the tank. If any of the coloring makes it into the bowl — you know the rest.
Celebrate National Fix a Leak Week by doing your bit to make sure you are on the right side of the water conservation effort. Check for surface leaks and inspect pipe fittings and faucet gaskets.
National Fix a Leak Week timeline
The Environmental Protection Agency sponsors and hosts National Fix a Leak Week in March.
The National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners' board of directors convenes in 2013 during a commission meeting to encourage members to participate in National Fix a Leak Week.
Water partners with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on April 23 to promote water conservation.
Governor Gretchen signs a declaration for National Fix a Leak Week in Michigan.
National Fix a Leak Week FAQs
How much water is wasted from a leaky pipe?
At a rate of 10 drops per minute, a leaky pipe is responsible for increasing monthly water usage by 90 liters.
How can you reduce water usage?
There are several ways to reduce water usage in your home. Here are some examples you can put into practice: Always make sure water is turned off when not in use. Don’t leave the water running while you shave or brush, flush your toilet sparingly; make sure used paper towels, tissues, hair, and trash are disposed of properly, conduct regular leak checks, attach flow-reducing devices to old plumbing fixtures, and spend less time in the shower.
How can you temporarily fix a leak?
Pipe putty and epoxy putty are great short-term options to fix leaky pipes. The putty hardens when exposed to room temperature and seals the crack or hole.
How to Observe National Fix a Leak Week
Conduct regular water meter checks
Water leaks can be sneaky little things. You should keep a keen eye on your water meter to make sure you are not wasting water.
Replace old pipes
Everything declines with age and frequent use. Take a look at your pipes, fittings, and faucets and see if you need replacements.
Take shorter showers
We’re all guilty of getting carried away in a hot bath every now and again. Spend less time when you’re in the bathroom and you’ll save water.
5 Facts About Water Leaks That Will Blow Your Mind
Leaks in the average household
Every year, leaks in the average home waste more than 10,000 gallons of water, enough to wash 270 loads of clothing.
Suspect list
Worn toilet flappers, dripping faucets, and leaking shower heads are all common leak sources in the home.
Daily count
Leaks in 10% of households waste 90 gallons or more each day.
Smart money
Fixing water leaks in the home can save some homeowners up to 10% on their water costs.
A low-cost requirement
In most circumstances, fixture replacement parts do not necessitate a significant financial expenditure.
Why National Fix a Leak Week is Important
It is an important reminder
National Fix a Leak Week is an annual reminder to inspect your home for water leaks. The observance plays a crucial role in the promotion and advocacy for water conservation.
Educating the public
National Fix a Leak Week is dedicated to teaching us about leaks in our homes and how to fix them. The week seeks to change the public’s perception of water usage and highlight the dangers of leaving leaks unattended.
Water conservation
Conserving water in our homes helps to save energy and reduce our carbon footprint. This energy is required in filtering, heating, and pumping water into homes.
National Fix a Leak Week dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | March 14 | Monday |
| 2023 | March 13 | Monday |
| 2024 | March 11 | Monday |
| 2025 | March 10 | Monday |
| 2026 | March 16 | Monday |
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