American Water's Efforts in Leak Detection and Infrastructure Improvement for Sustainable Water Management

### American Water's Commitment to Leak Detection and Management

American Water Works Co., the largest regulated water and wastewater utility in the United States, actively participates in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Fix a Leak Week 2026, emphasizing the importance of leak detection and repair for homeowners. Leak prevention is not only crucial for conserving water but also serves to protect households from increased utility bills due to wasted resources. Jim Runzer, Vice President of Operations at Pennsylvania American Water, highlights that leaks in common household fixtures can waste more than 90 gallons of water daily, affecting about one out of every ten homes. The company reinforces this message through practical advice and educational resources, enhancing public awareness while promoting proactive measures for water conservation.

American Water is investing significantly in modernizing its water and wastewater infrastructure, with plans to allocate more than $631 million this year alone. The investments involve upgrading aging pipes and adding advanced leak-detection technologies to ensure reliable service for approximately 14 million customers across its operational area. Cheryl Norton, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, stresses that fixing leaks will not only conserve water but also enhance long-term sustainability in water services. The company encourages homeowners to detect leaks by checking the usual culprits, such as toilets, faucets, and appliances, which could indicate plumbing issues if water pooling occurs.

In addition to outreach efforts, American Water provides various tools for customers to manage their water usage and detect leaks, including downloadable leak-detection kits and an online portal, MyWater. With resources available on the company’s Water Learning Center, American Water continues its commitment to not only delivering safe and reliable water services but also promoting environmental stewardship. As Fix a Leak Week highlights, the responsibilities for water conservation extend beyond the company to every individual household, underscoring that collective action is vital for sustainable water management.

### Enhancing Infrastructure and Environmental Stewardship

American Water is dedicating resources to improve its infrastructure to ensure reliable and safe water for its customers. This commitment is evidenced by ongoing investments in modernizing facilities, with significant funding allocated to technological upgrades that enhance operational efficiency and reduce waste.

The company also recognizes its role in combating plastic waste through initiatives like the hydration station grants. These grants aim to enhance public access to clean drinking water while minimizing single-use plastic consumption, supporting community health alongside their environmental impact efforts.