Contact: Jeanne Giernet, 651-757-2390
Saint Paul, Minn. — The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is encouraging residents to check their toilets for leaks during national Fix-a-Leak week, March 18-24. The agency will provide a free packet of leak detection tablets to any interested household in Minnesota upon request.
In Minnesota, the current drought coupled with growing water demands is putting a strain on water resources. Nationally, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that 1 trillion gallons of water are wasted each year through household leaks — enough to supply the needs of Chicago, Miami and Los Angeles combined. Toilets are especially leak-prone: it is estimated that some 20 percent of all toilets are leaky. But because leaking toilets are often silent, the problem typically goes unnoticed.
“Our actions add up. By doing something as simple as finding and fixing toilet and other household water leaks, we can all play a big part in protecting and preserving our water resources for current and future generations,“ said MPCA supervisor Kevin McDonald.
Experts recommend that toilets be checked for leaks on a semiannual or annual basis. A silent toilet leak can quietly “rob” a home of 50 to 300 or more gallons of water each day. This can lead to higher water and sewer bills and the waste of a finite natural resource. Leaks can also shorten the lives of septic systems and private wells.
Leak detection tablets can be ordered at on the MPCA's Fix a Leak page, by calling 651-757-2999, or by emailing leakdetection.pca@state.mn.us. Supplies are limited.
The MPCA is a promotional partner of WaterSense®, an EPA program that promotes the value of water efficiency and water-efficient products to consumers. For information on WaterSense® and Fix-a-Leak week, visit www.epa.gov/watersense/.
