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American Water Kicks Off 2026 With Innovative Water Savings Initiatives

As we embrace the new year, American Water (NYSE: AWK), the leading regulated water and wastewater utility in the United States, is excited to share valuable tips to help customers save water, money, and time. In a recent statement, Cheryl Norton, the Executive Vice President and COO of American Water, stressed the importance of adopting new habits that can conserve water around the home. Not only does water conservation play a crucial role in sustaining our most precious resource for future generations, but it can also lead to tangible savings on your water and wastewater bills.

Investment in Infrastructure

American Water plans to invest between $46 and $48 billion over the next decade to upgrade its water and wastewater systems. This significant investment aims to bolster the infrastructure, minimize leaks, and enhance efficiency and resilience. Such improvements will allow American Water to serve its customers more effectively while also contributing to sustainability efforts.

Practical Water-Saving Tips for Homes

To enable customers to begin their water-saving journey, here are some practical tips to conserve water throughout the year:

Inside the Home

• - Optimize Appliance Use: Run the dishwasher and laundry machine only when they are full. Consider upgrading to water- and energy-efficient models.
• - Install Water-Saving Fixtures: Utilize low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators to decrease water use without sacrificing performance.
• - Leak Checks: Regularly inspect for leaks and fix any issues promptly to prevent unnecessary water waste.

Protecting Your Plumbing

• - Pipe Insulation: Insulating pipes in colder, unheated areas helps prevent freezing. If you have pipes running through cabinets, keep the doors open to allow warm air to circulate.
• - Winter Tips: During freezing temperatures, let a small trickle of water run to prevent pipes from freezing. Save the collected drips for later use.
• - Post-Thaw Inspections: After the thaw, have a plumber inspect your water lines for any leaks.

Outdoor Water Conservation

When the outdoor watering season arrives, keep these tips in mind:

• - Smart Watering: Only water your plants when necessary, shutting off sprinklers during rain and for 48 hours afterward.
• - Efficient Irrigation: Opt for drip irrigation systems or water plants during the cooler early morning or evening hours to reduce evaporation losses.
• - Regular System Checks: Regularly inspect your irrigation systems for leaks and ensure hoses are disconnected when not in use to avoid leaks.

Smart Technologies in Water Management

American Water is committed to employing advanced technologies for leak detection and monitoring. Acoustic leak detection allows the company to identify potential leaks underground before they become apparent. Additionally, the use of drones and infrared technology enhances leak detection capabilities.

Smart metering will also provide real-time data on water usage, aiding both customers and the utility in conservation efforts. Norton emphasizes that these technological advancements contribute significantly to the utility's resilience and conservation initiatives.

Effortless Account Management

Customers can also save time by enrolling in American Water's Auto Pay and paperless billing options. By utilizing the MyWater account, customers can easily manage their preferences:

• - Auto Pay: Ensures bills are paid automatically and on time.
• - Paperless Billing: Reduces clutter by sending bills via email instead of traditional mail.

Stay Informed

To keep customers updated on water service matters, the MyWater account features an interactive Customer Advisory Map. This tool allows users to check for any alerts in their area and verify that their contact details and notification preferences are current. During water emergencies, American Water provides alerts through customers’ chosen communication methods.

For those who don’t have an account, the public can still view the Customer Advisory Map and report emergencies via American Water's website.

In conclusion, American Water is dedicated to enriching lives through responsible water management practices. As we step into 2026, let’s embrace these innovative water-saving strategies and ensure a sustainable future for our communities while enjoying the benefits of wise water use.