Los Angeles Homeowners Urged to Conserve Water This Summer by Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air
With summer’s intense heat and the ongoing need for water conservation, Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air is urging Los Angeles homeowners to adopt water-saving practices. The company highlights that these efforts are particularly crucial during August, recognized as National Water Quality Month, a period dedicated to understanding and protecting the nation’s water resources.
The extreme summer temperatures in Los Angeles place significant strain on the region’s water supply. This situation is exacerbated by broader drought conditions that continue to challenge California’s water availability. Rooter Hero emphasizes that conserving water not only safeguards supply but also plays a vital role in maintaining water quality for the community.
John Akhoian, co-founder and CEO of Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air, stated, “National Water Quality Month is a good reminder that saving water also means protecting its quality.” He added, “Fixing leaks, being mindful of what goes down the drain and choosing efficient fixtures are all small steps that help keep our water supply clean and reliable.”
The Pervasive Problem of Household Leaks
Household leaks represent a substantial source of wasted water. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average household’s leaks can account for over 10,000 gallons of water wasted annually, enough to wash approximately 270 loads of laundry. Nationally, these leaks contribute to over a trillion gallons of wasted water each year, equivalent to the annual water usage of more than 11 million homes. A concerning statistic from the EPA indicates that about ten percent of homes have leaks that waste 90 gallons or more per day.
Rooter Hero advises homeowners to proactively check for these often-hidden leaks in faucets, toilets, and outdoor spigots. Simple checks, such as placing food coloring in a toilet tank, can reveal if a toilet is leaking. Addressing these issues promptly can significantly reduce water waste and lower water bills, with savings potentially reaching up to 10 percent.
Efficient Fixtures and Outdoor Watering Practices
To further enhance water conservation, Rooter Hero recommends the installation of low-flow fixtures, such as showerheads, faucets, and toilets. These fixtures are designed to reduce water consumption without compromising performance. For example, replacing old, inefficient toilets with WaterSense-labeled models can save an average family 13,000 gallons of water annually.
Outdoor watering practices are also a key focus for conservation. The company suggests limiting irrigation to early morning or late evening hours to minimize water loss through evaporation. This strategy can save up to 65% of water compared to midday watering. Additionally, homeowners are encouraged to replace water-intensive plants with drought-resistant varieties that naturally require less water. The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) also has specific watering restrictions, limiting outdoor watering to designated days and times to further conserve resources.
Responsible Disposal and Broader Water Quality Concerns
Beyond direct water usage, Rooter Hero stresses the importance of mindful disposal of household products. Homeowners should avoid pouring paints, solvents, and medications down drains, as these substances can negatively impact wastewater treatment processes and local water supplies. The Los Angeles River, for instance, is known to receive pollutants from stormwater runoff, including chemicals, fertilizers, grease, and oil, which affect its water quality.
National Water Quality Month serves as a critical reminder of the interconnectedness of water conservation and water quality. Efforts to reduce water usage also contribute to protecting water sources from pollution, ensuring a cleaner and more reliable supply for the community. The broader context of water management in Los Angeles includes addressing issues like aging infrastructure, which can lead to significant water losses, and the impact of treated wastewater on local ecosystems.
By adopting these simple yet impactful measures, Los Angeles homeowners can play a crucial role in safeguarding the region’s precious water resources, especially during the peak demand of summer and in recognition of National Water Quality Month.
