Photo courtesy of WJBC and WJBC.com

By A.J. Harris

Illinois American Water is encouraging people to fix broken pipes to save money.

It’s Fix a Leak week and the national campaign helps to raise awareness about small leaks and other water issues that may waste water within homes and businesses.

According to the EPA, the average residence in the U.S. loses 10,000 gallons of water per year due to minor leaks.

Illinois American Water is offering some tips, Place a drop of food coloring in your toilet tank and see if the water in the bowl changes colors within 10 minutes. If so, you have a leak.

Also, at least once each season check faucet gaskets and pipe fittings for surface leaks.