‘Fix a Leak Week’ events set for Hilo, Kona

The Department of Water Supply, Hawaii County, is celebrating the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s annual “Fix a Leak Week,” March 17-21, by helping customers learn how to identify and fix common household water leaks.

DWS will hold public outreach events in Hilo and Kona.

Water professionals will offer free toilet tank leak detection tablets, conservation guidance, and invite members of the public to test their drinking water knowledge to win prizes.

Please visit the DWS booth at the following times and locations:

— 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, March 17, at the Hawaii County Building, 25 Aupuni Street, Hilo;

— 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 19, at the West Hawaii Civic Center, Building C, lower level, 74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway, Kailua-Kona;

— 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, March 21, at Aupuni Center, 101 Pauahi Street, Hilo.

DWS will also offer toilet tank leak detection tablets, while supplies last, during normal business hours at its offices in Hilo, Kona and Waimea.

Toilet leak detection tablets offer a quick and easy way to check for leaking toilets, which can waste up to 200 gallons of our most precious resource every day and increase customers’ water bills.

Toilet leaks are often caused by a worn-out toilet flapper that easily can go undetected. Replacing worn out flappers is an easy and affordable way to reduce water waste.

To determine if other household water leaks are occurring, DWS customers should check their water meter after turning off all faucets, spigots and household appliances such as dishwashers that use water. If the meter is still moving, a leak may be present. Customers should also examine their water bill for spikes in water usage that could indicate an undetected leak.

For additional leak detection and water conservation tips, please call (808) 961-8050 or visit the DWS website, www.hawaiidws.org.