Water agency asks people to cut back on water use

In response to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection's drought watch declaration, Pennsylvania American Water is asking customers to cut back on water use.

"Pennsylvania American Water is encouraging customers statewide to voluntarily reduce their water consumption in response to the drought watch declaration announced yesterday by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)," according to a release from Western Region External and Government Affairs Senior Manager Gary Lobaugh. "While the company always encourages wise water use, Pennsylvania American Water is asking residents and businesses to voluntarily reduce their nonessential water use by 5 to 10 percent (a reduction of 3 to 6 gallons per day) in accordance with DEP's guidance."

"We're asking our customers to observe the DEP's request and be mindful of their nonessential water use during this drought watch, while we vigilantly monitor our drinking water sources," Vice President of Operations Jim Runzer said. "Our sources of supply are currently adequate to meet the needs of our customers, but we want to mitigate the potential for more severe conditions that could lead to stricter conservation measures later this summer."

The state issued the drought watch declaration on June 15 following a meeting of the Commonwealth Drought Task Force.

Here are some Pennsylvania American Water tips for conserving water inside and outside the home this summer:

¯ Run dishwashers and clothes washers only when they are full. If you have a water-saver cycle, use it.

¯ Regularly check your toilet, faucets, and pipes for leaks with our free leak detection kits. If you find a leak, have it fixed as soon as possible.

¯ Install water-saving showerheads, toilets and faucet aerators.

¯ Consider water and energy-efficient appliances. Products and services that have earned the WaterSense label have been certified to be at least 20 percent more efficient without sacrificing performance.

¯ Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth or washing dishes in the sink.

¯ Water your lawn only when it needs it. When you do, water in the early morning or evening to reduce evaporation.

¯ Use a broom instead of a hose to clean your sidewalk, driveway or patio.

¯ Set up a rain barrel to be ready to repurpose rain when it does fall.