Around here we talk a lot about high-efficiency toilets and water use so Fix a Leak Week is naturally on our radar. But I wonder, how many people actually know about it? Let’s be honest, theme weeks can be lame attempts at spreading awareness about random things only a small percentage of people care about. However, this one really does warrant your attention. Water matters—whether you think about the earth or your budget. It’s a good time to make sure you’re not unwittingly draining either one.

This EPA Fix a Leak Week resource lists easy ways to check for leaks. For instance, check to see if your winter usage exceeds 12,000 gallons per month; or put food coloring in the toilet tank and check back after 15 minutes to see if the color appears in the bowl. You might also check with local plumbing professionals for specials this week. (Otherwise put, get someone else to do your dirty work. I’m sure they’d be more than happy to make the repairs for you.)

EPA Website: www.epa.gov/watersense

Why not go one step further? Definitely check for leaks and make repairs, AND choose one way to proactively green up your space. Depending on your budget, you could swap an old water-guzzling toilet for a new high-efficiency toilet that uses just 1.28 gallons per flush. This is one of the easiest and most effective water saving things you can do in the bathroom.  Yes, it’s the place we Americans consume the most water in the house. If your budget doesn’t allow for a new toilet, consider a low-flow showerhead and replacing the aerators on your faucets.  Just a quick Google search will give you loads of ideas for saving water around your home.