Each March, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) encourages households nationwide to track down and fix leaks during Fix a Leak Week, happening this year from March 15–21. CV Water Counts invites Coachella Valley residents to join the effort and help protect one of our most valuable desert resources: water.

Why it matters in the Coachella Valley

In our desert climate, every drop counts. Even small leaks can quietly waste significant amounts of water over time. In fact:

  • The average household’s leaks can waste nearly 10,000 gallons of water each year.
  • About 10% of homes have leaks that waste 90 gallons or more per day.

That’s water — and money — literally going down the drain. 

How to spot a leak

One of the first clues is a spike in water use without a clear explanation. If your habits haven’t changed but your bill has, it’s time to investigate.

Here are a few simple steps:

  • Check your toilet – Add a few drops of food coloring to the tank. If color appears in the bowl within 10 minutes (without flushing), you likely have a worn flapper.
  • Inspect faucets and showerheads – A slow drip may not seem like much, but it adds up quickly.
  • Look outdoors – Broken sprinkler heads, soggy patches in your yard, or water running down the gutter could signal irrigation leaks.
  • Try the meter test – Turn off all water in your home and check your water meter. If it’s still moving, you may have a hidden leak.

The good news: many fixes are easy

Most common leaks — such as worn toilet flappers, loose fittings, or dripping faucets — are inexpensive and simple to repair. A quick trip to your local hardware store and a few basic tools can often solve the problem.

Fixing easily corrected household leaks can save homeowners about 10% on their water bills, while also helping preserve our region’s groundwater supplies.

Take the pledge

Fix a Leak Week is the perfect reminder to spend just a few minutes checking your home. Those small actions can make a big difference — for your wallet and for the Coachella Valley.

View the EPA’s Fix a Leak video:

Let’s work together to make conservation a way of life — not just this week, but all year long.