IN THE DEVELOPED WORLD, we tend to take it for granted that when we turn on our taps, clean, consumable water will come out. We need to protect our water sources. With less than three percent of the world’s water being suitable for human consumption, we need to minimize our use.
Here are some tips for doing that, and saving on your water bill in the process.
1) Install low use fixtures
Older faucets, shower heads and toilets used more water than modern fixtures. Upgrading to faucets that have aerators or to low flush toilets will save you money almost immediately.
2) Shorten shower times
You don’t need to compromise on hygiene to save water. The average American showers for eight minutes and uses seventeen gallons. Reducing your shower to five minutes will save you six gallons per shower, or more than 2,000 gallons in a year.
3) Turn off water while soaping
You don’t need to have water running down the drain while you soap your hands or the dishes. Turn it off to save water while you lather up.
4) Use your dishwasher (and load it up)
Speaking of dishes, your dishwasher uses less water for the same number of dishes washed by hand. As long as you fill it (without overfilling), the soap, water and heat will keep your dishes sparkling while saving water.
5) Avoid running your washing machine with small loads
Those jeans that need to be washed separately from the rest of the load can be washed by hand. Running a washing machine cycle for a tiny load not only wastes water, but electricity as well.
6) Check for signs of leaks in your plumbing
Not all leaks are clearly visible. Piping inside walls and in areas rarely occupied can drip water for a long time before it’s discovered. Do regular inspections to ensure that you’re not wasting water through hidden leaks.
7) Fix leaks as soon as they happen
Once you discover a leak, whether hidden or easily visible, call in a professional to deal with it as soon as possible. You’ll save money both from stopping the water wastage and from a cheaper repair.
8) Install water monitoring and shutoff devices
Water leakage systems monitor flow to your entire home or to specific appliances. Some even shut off the supply immediately to protect your home from flooding and water damage, as well as save water.
If you need help installing devices and fixtures to reduce your water bill and consumption, give us a call at 918-744-1000.