Fix a Leak Week 2026: Spring Into Action and Save Water at Home and in Your Lawn

March 01, 2026

What is Fix a Leak Week?

Fix a Leak Week, held annually by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and their WaterSense program, is a week dedicated to raising awareness about the significant amount of water wasted due to household and outdoor leaks. Each year, the event encourages homeowners to inspect their plumbing systems and fixtures for leaks and to take action to repair them. This is especially timely in the spring, as many homeowners begin to spend more time outdoors and prepare their homes for the warmer months ahead.

Did you know that household leaks in the U.S. can waste nearly 1 trillion gallons of water annually? That’s a lot of water that could be conserved with just a few simple fixes!

Why Check for Leaks in Spring?

As the snow melts and temperatures rise, now is the ideal time to perform routine checks around your home, both indoors and outdoors, to make sure no water is going to waste. Leaks that went unnoticed over the winter or during the colder months are likely to become more evident as you use your plumbing systems more frequently.

By fixing these leaks, you’re not only helping conserve water but also lowering your water bills and preventing potential damage to your home. Let’s look at a few common areas to check for leaks.

Check for Indoor Leaks

Faucets & Showerheads - One of the most common sources of leaks inside the home are faucets and showerheads. Even a small drip can waste gallons of water over time. Check all faucets and showerheads for signs of leaks, such as water pooling around the base, wet spots on the counter, or the constant sound of dripping. If you find a leak, replacing washers or seals can usually do the trick.
Toilets - Toilets are notorious for running water, often without any obvious signs of a leak. One easy way to check is to put a few drops of food coloring in your toilet tank and wait about 15 minutes. If the color appears in the bowl without flushing, you have a leak in the tank that’s wasting water. Typically, this can be fixed by replacing the flapper or valve.
Pipes - Inspect the visible pipes under sinks, around water heaters, and any other exposed areas for leaks. Look for puddles or damp spots around pipes, which could indicate a leak. If you see any, contact a plumber before the issue becomes more serious.

Outdoor Leaks to Look For

Lawn Irrigation Systems - Springtime is when many people start thinking about watering their lawns and gardens again. If you use an irrigation system, make sure it’s functioning properly. Look for wet spots in your yard, uneven water distribution, or areas that stay too soggy, as these could indicate a leak in your irrigation system. A quick repair could save you water and prevent costly damage to your landscape.
Hose Bibs & Outdoor Faucets - Check the exterior faucets (hose bibs) for leaks as well. Sometimes, hoses left attached during the winter can cause damage to the faucet, leading to leaks once the water is turned back on. Turn on the water and look for leaks around the faucet or hose connection. If you notice any, replace washers or the faucet itself to prevent wasting water.
Sprinkler Systems - Just like irrigation systems, your sprinklers can develop leaks or malfunctions. Inspect your sprinkler heads to make sure they are pointing in the right direction and not spraying sidewalks, driveways, or other non-plant areas. A leak in a sprinkler head can waste a significant amount of water, so make sure to adjust or replace any damaged heads.

How to Fix Leaks: Simple Tips for DIY Repairs

Many common leaks are easy to fix yourself with minimal tools and supplies. Here are a few simple steps to get you started:

Turn off the water - Before repairing any leak, make sure to turn off the water supply to avoid wasting more water.
Inspect the source of the leak - Look closely at the leak and identify if it’s a worn-out washer, cracked pipe, or faulty valve.
Replace parts as needed - For minor leaks like faucet drips or toilet issues, replacing a washer, flapper, or valve can often fix the problem.
Use waterproof tape or caulk - For minor cracks or temporary fixes, you can use waterproof tape or caulk to seal the leak while waiting for a more permanent repair.
Check for larger issues - If the leak appears to be more complex, such as a broken pipe or malfunctioning irrigation system, it’s best to consult a professional plumber or landscaper to avoid further damage.

The Bigger Impact of Fixing Leaks

By taking the time to check for and repair leaks in and around your home, you're not only saving water but also contributing to a larger effort to preserve this precious resource for future generations. Fixing leaks prevents water waste, conserves energy, and reduces the environmental impact of unnecessary water usage. Plus, addressing leaks now can prevent more costly repairs later on.

Get Involved This Fix a Leak Week!

Grab your tools, head outside, and let’s make Fix a Leak Week 2026 the best one yet.

Together, we can make a difference, one leak at a time!