Pennsylvania American Water: Fixing leaks can lower bills
Among rising energy and utility prices, Pennsylvania American Water offered tips to help residents lower their water bills by fixing common leaks in a Monday, March 16, news release.
The tips are the company’s way of observing Fix a Leak Week, established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The tips apply to leaking toilets, faucets, bathtubs, showers and boiler systems.
According to the EPA, leaks affect about one in 10 homes and can waste more than 90 gallons of water each day.
For toilets, a defective plunger ball or flapper valve can waste water by causing the tank to continually drain and refill. It can be tested by dropping a small amount of food coloring in the tank and waiting five minutes. There may be a leak if the colored water seeps into the toilet bowl.
For faucets, bathtubs and showers, the washer may need replaced if the faucet continues dripping after being tightened. Leaky faucets waste around 3,200 gallons of water per year, according to the release.
For leaking boiler systems, washing machines and dishwashers, Pennsylvania American Water recommends calling a repair service.
