ISELIN, NJ -- (MARKET WIRE) -- 03/15/10 -- Each year, more than 1 trillion gallons of water is wasted in U.S. homes due to minor water leaks. Middlesex Water Company (NASDAQ: MSEX) is joining with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) WaterSense® program in promoting "Fix a Leak Week," March 15 through 21, 2010 to encourage residents to check household plumbing fixtures and irrigation systems for leaks. The WaterSense program seeks to protect the future of our nation's water supply by offering people a simple way to use less water.

"Household leaks can add up to more than 10,000 gallons of water wasted at every year -- that's enough to fill a backyard swimming pool," said Dennis W. Doll, President and CEO. "Middlesex Water Company is participating in Fix a Leak Week to help educate homeowners that repairing leaking fixtures can save money on their utility bills and that these actions over time can help preserve our water supplies for future generations."

Middlesex Water Company and WaterSense are promoting ways to identify and repair dripping faucets, running toilets, and leaky showerheads. In most cases, fixture replacement parts pay for themselves quickly and can be installed by do-it-yourselfers or a local plumber. Following are a few water-saving tips:

-- Reduce faucet leaks by checking faucet washers and gaskets for wear
   and, if necessary, replace the faucet with a WaterSense labeled model.

-- Leaky toilets are most often the result of a worn toilet flapper.
   Replacing the flapper is a quick fix that could save a home with a
   constantly running toilet up to 200 gallons of water per day.

-- For a leaky garden hose, replace the nylon or rubber hose washer and
   ensure a tight connection to the spigot using pipe tape and a wrench.

-- Landscape irrigation systems should be checked each spring before
   use to make sure they are not damaged by frost or freezing.

When replacing or updating plumbing fixtures, Middlesex Water Company reminds homeowners to look for the WaterSense label. WaterSense labeled toilets, faucets, and (soon) showerheads have been independently tested and certified to save water and perform as well as, or better than, standard models. WaterSense also partners with certified landscape irrigation auditors, designers, installers, and maintenance professionals.

For more information on Fix a Leak Week or to find a WaterSense labeled product, visit www.epa.gov/watersense/fixaleak or visit www.middlesexwater.com

Add to Digg Bookmark with del.icio.us Add to Newsvine

CONTACT:
Bernadette M. Sohler, 732-638-7549
Middlesex Water Company
Vice President - Corporate Affairs