Keep your water bill down and conserve a natural resource by reducing water use around the house. Here are helpful tips for saving water at home.
Easy Ways to Save Water
1. Take a Shower Instead of a Bath
A typical tub takes up to 70 gallons of water to fill it for a bath. Taking a shower uses 25 gallons or less, especially with a water-saving shower head in place. Trying taking shorter showers to further reduce water use in your home.
2. Save Your Shower Water
An easy option for saving water at home is to save the water that runs before your shower. While waiting for the shower to get warm, save the running water in a bucket. Use that water for plants, to flush the toilet, or to rinse off the deck.
3. Turn Off the Taps to Save Water at Home
In the bathroom, don’t let the water run when you are brushing your teeth or shaving. Use short bursts of water to rinse as you go. The same goes for washing dishes in the kitchen. Only turn the tap on when you need it.
4. Running Full Loads is a Great Tip for Saving Water
Only run full loads when using your washing machine or your dishwasher. Many appliances use the same amount of water whether there is a full load or not. Upgrading your appliances will help with saving water at home. Newer models use less water and electricity than older appliances.
5. Fix Plumbing Leaks
Small water leaks from the faucet and the toilet can add up quickly. If you notice water dripping at the sink, fix the faucet. It may only be a deteriorating O-ring which is a quick fix. Use food coloring in the toilet tank to test for leaks. If you see the colored water in the bowl, you may need a new flapper or seal.
6. Saving Water at Home Can Start with Your Toilets
Water saving toilets can use as little as 1.28 gallons of water per flush. Other toilets use between 1.6 gallons and 7 gallons (for very old models). Even with the 1.6-gallon tank, upgrading to a 1.28 model would save thousands of gallons of water each year.
7. Reuse Cooking Water
The water you use to cook pasta doesn’t have to go down the sink when you drain it off. Save it and use it to water your plants.
8. Teach Your Children Good Water Saving Habits
If you have kids, teach them good water saving habits. This includes turning off the water when not in use and taking shorter showers.
Saving water at home does require making a conscious effort. Every time you use water, think of ways to use less. The effort will pay off with a lower water bill and you’ll feel better knowing you’re conserving a valuable resource.
Sunrise Home Inspection offers home inspections in Eastern Connecticut and Western Rhode Island. Contact us to request an appointment.