ND American Water Works Association

Interesting Water Facts

A leaking hot water faucet should never be disregarded. Little drops of water cost money.

Average Loss of Water Leaking from
Faucets Over a Period of One Month

Drops per minute	Gallons wasted per month
30	54
60	113
120	237
1/2"	1,014
1 1/2"	2,202

Small, continuous leaks will waste large amounts of water. In addition, leaks in hot-water lines will waste heat. Keep all valves and faucets tight. When a leak develops, replace faucet washers. If valves or faucets are damaged, replace faucet or valve assembly.

Heating water is the second largest energy user in the home. In fact, about four percent of America's total energy consumption is attributable to heating water. Family hot water usage has increased due to more widespread use of automatic washers and dishwashers. The estimated water use in today's average home is.

Every 10 degrees higher on a hot water tank's thermostats settings represents a 3% increase in cost for that unit.

After taking a bath, do not drain out the warm water. Instead, allow it to cool. Approximately 10,000 BTU's will be added to the home from one tub of water as it cools from 100 degrees to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This is enough heat to keep a well insulated 3 bedroom home, warn for one hour when it is 10 degrees above zero outside. (International Solar Thermics Corp., Box 397, Nererland, CO 80466)

Average Water Usage
Tub bath	10-15 gal
Shower(under 5 min duration)	8-12 gal
Automatic washer	25-35 gal
Automatic dishwasher	11-16 gal
Hand wash dishes (each time)	9-14 gal
Shampoo	5-7 gal
Cleaning	3-8 gal
Food preparation	5 gal