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The deteriorating economy has caused homeowners to make saving money a priority, but what many residents do not realize is a major, unnecessary expense is lurking right under their roofs. Water leaks, caused by faulty faucets, shower valves and toilets, waste thousands of gallons of water. These problems can result in hundreds of dollars washed down the drain.

To encourage property owners to investigate possible water leakage in their homes, American Leak Detection is commemorating “Fix-A-Leak Week.” Sponsored by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the national awareness campaign takes place from March 16th to 20th, and is designed to check household plumbing fixtures and irrigation systems for leaks.

According to American Leak Detection, the most common leaks found in the home include leaking toilet flappers, dripping faucets and other leaking valves. The EPA estimates that by fixing these types of commonplace leaks, homeowners can save more than 10 percent on their water bills. American Leak Detection recommends residents perform simple maintenance tests on all their household plumbing fixtures including faucets, showerheads, and toilets, as well as outdoor irrigation systems and hose spigots.

For people ready to tackle the job, American Leak Detection offers the following checklist provided by the EPA:

• Check the meter - Examine the water meter before and after a two-hour period during which no water was used; if the meter does not read exactly the same, a leak is likely present.
• Replace valves - Bad faucet or shower valves may not allow water to be completely shut off.
• Replace faulty toilet flappers and float assemblies - An inexpensive rubber part, the toilet flapper, is often to blame for toilet leaks, as mineral build-up can cause the part to decay. A float not adjusted correctly or not working properly can cause water to overfill the tank and rise above the over-flow tube. Fortunately, replacing the flapper is an easy, inexpensive do-it-yourself project.
• Examine irrigation systems - Each spring, check the irrigation system to make sure it was not damaged by frost or freezing. Older valves have a tendency to wear out and allow water to run through the valve and to the open side or the sprinkler side.
• Tighten spigots - Check for leaks where garden hoses connect to the spigot; if it leaks while running, replace the nylon or rubber hose washer, and use pipe tape and a wrench to secure the bond.
• Check pool/spa - An Auto Fill running constantly could indicate a leak. Perform a Bucket Test to confirm water loss.  Normal evaporation is usually 1/8″ to 1/4″ with auto fill off.
• Take notice - A warm spot on the floor or high gas bills could indicate a hot water leak under the home.
• Listen - Hearing water noise in walls at night with no water running could also indicate a leak under the home.

American Leak Detection utilizes specially trained experts and quality equipment to detect leaks before they require major home repairs. The company implements its own proprietary methods and technology to ensure the most non-invasive leak detection possible. Commercial and residential service is available.