Leaky pipes targeted to reduce water waste

To forward the campaign locally, the Washington County Water Conservancy District is giving out water-efficient shower heads and toilet flappers to local residents. The district also outlined some of the ways residents could do their part to prevent leaks, including checking for leaks, twisting and tightening hose and pipe connections and replacing fixtures when necessary.Making some small fixes can save homeowners more than 10 percent on their water bills, according to the EPA.

"Residents will find that replacing leaking faucets will reflect savings on their water bill in addition to saving water — a win-win," said Julie Breckenridge, water conservation manager for the district.Karry Rathje, spokeswoman for the district, said water managers have provisions and policies in place to monitor, track and repair leaks in the district system, as do managers with local cities.

She said accounts that use above normal amounts of water are flagged and contacted, but homeowners can also use leak detection tablets or periodically check their meter for leaks if they want to be more proactive.Corey Cram, the district's associate general manager, said the most common leaks are from broken pipes or irrigation lines."With spring on the horizon, it's a great time to test sprinklers and drip systems to ensure they're working efficiently," Rathje said in an email. "It's also wise to replace well-used water fixtures that tend to leak after much use."