Plumber offers water-saving advice

Fixing leaks and updating old appliances can save water and money as Californians brace for the worst of the ongoing drought.

In some water districts, customers are being asked to cut their water usage in half.

Watch report:Water saving ideas

By updating old appliances and fixing small leaks, Beutler Plumbing service manager Neil Chapman says customers can see big savings.

"A big item to check is if the toilet leaks," Chapman said.

He calls them the silent leakers.

"You dont always hear them leaking, and a small toilet leak can waste up to 20 gallons of water a day. A good way to check is a little food coloring in the tank. If it runs through to the bowl then you have a leak," Chapman said.

Installing low-flow toilets is another way to save water in the bathroom.

At 1.28 gallons per flush, they use less than half the water of older models.

Chapman says many water districts offer rebates to customers making the switch.

Read more:
Plumber offers water-saving advice