Frequently Asked Questions

How do I contact Algonquin Power Income Fund?

To reach Algonquin Power Income Fund, please call 905-465-4500. Or visit the contact page and submit an email using the form provided.

How can I determine if I have a water leak?

To locate possible leaks, try some of the following:

• Read your water meter before and after a two-hour period when no water is being used. If the meter does not read exactly the same, there is a leak.
• Repair dripping faucets by replacing washers. If your faucet is dripping at a rate of one drop per second, you can expect to waste 2,700 gallons per year. This adds to the cost of water and sewer utilities and adds to your water bill.
• Check for toilet tank leaks by adding food coloring to the tank. If the toilet is leaking, color will appear in the toilet bowl within 30 minutes. Check the toilet for worn out, corroded or bent parts. Most replacement parts are inexpensive, readily available and easily installed. (Flush as soon as test is done, since food coloring may stain tank.)

How can I save water?

There are a number of ways to save water. Here are a few:

• When washing dishes by hand, soak pots and pans instead of letting the water run while you scrape them. Instead of letting the water run while rinsing, fill one sink with wash water and the other with rinse water. Consider using the rinse water for house plants or mopping the floor when you are done.
• Evaporative coolers require a seasonal maintenance checkup. For more efficient cooling, check your evaporative cooler annually. Be sure to direct the water drain to a flower bed, tree, or your lawn.
• Check your water meter and bill to track your water usage and find hidden leaks before they cause structural damage.
• Always water lawns and other outdoor plants during the early morning hours, when temperatures are cooler, to minimize evaporation. Only water your lawn when needed. You can tell this by simply walking across your lawn. If you leave footprints, it’s time to water. Or, use a screwdriver as a soil probe to test soil moisture.
• Wash produce in the sink or a pan that is partially filled with water instead of running water from the tap. Reuse the water that you washed produce in for watering house plants or for cleaning. Don’t use running water to thaw food.
• Adjust your lawn mower to a higher setting. Longer grass will reduce the loss of water to evaporation. Mow your lawn as infrequently as possible. Mowing puts your lawn under additional stress, causing it to require more water.
• Use a broom instead of a hose to clean your driveway and sidewalk and save up to 80 gallons of water every time.
• Instead of using a hose or a sink to dispose of paints, motor oil, and pesticides, dispose of them properly by recycling or sending them to a hazardous waste site.
• Check your sprinkler system frequently and adjust sprinklers so only your lawn is watered and not the house, sidewalk, or street. Remember to check the valves periodically for leaks and keep the heads in good shape.
• Run your washing machine and dishwasher only when they are full and you could save 1000 gallons per month. When you shop for a new appliance, keep in mind that one offering several different cycles will be more water and energy-efficient.
• Time your shower to keep it under 5 minutes. You’ll save up to 1000 gallons a month. Consider installing a low-flow showerhead. They’re inexpensive, easy to install, and can save your family more than 500 gallons a week.
• Start a compost pile instead of using the garbage disposal. Using compost when you plant adds water-holding organic matter to the soil.
• Plant during the spring or fall when the watering requirements are lower. Be sure to use a layer of organic mulch around plants to reduce evaporation, promote plant growth, and reduce weeds.
• Keep a pitcher of water in the refrigerator instead of running the tap for cold drinks. Be sure to designate one glass for your drinking water each day. This will cut down on the number of times you run your dishwasher.
• Install low volume toilets, efficient shower heads, and aerators on faucets.