Most people would be surprised at the amount of water that households waste every year. Most wasted water is due to inattention and wasteful practices. By paying attention to how you use your water, a homeowner can reduce water costs and water consumption.
Best Ways To Reduce Water Costs At Home
In this article, we discuss some methods that you can implement in your home to reduce your water costs.
Check For Water Leaks And Repair Them
Water leaks can go unnoticed in a home for several years. Usually, homeowners discover leaks when there is another problem, such as mold growth near the area of the leak. Also, they may notice higher than usual water bills. According to the EPA, in the average household leaks can cause a loss of 10,000 gallons of water each year. That is enough water to wash 200 pounds of laundry. Leaking faucets, worn-out toilet flappers, and holes in pipes and around pipe connections are all culprits. Appliances that use water, such as water heaters, washers, and dishwashers, can also be sources of water leaks.
Homeowners should check areas where leaks are likely to occur. Sometimes a faucet or shower head that is not completely turned off will drip. However, if it is turned off and a leak persists, repair the unit immediately. It is a good idea to inspect pipes in crawl spaces to make sure they are in good condition. Damp spots and mold or mildew indicate a source of water. In many cases, the cause is a leaky pipe. If you suspect that you have a water leak, be sure to call a plumber right away.
Aim For A Water-Efficient Toilet
Worn out toilet flappers can allow water to run in toilets until the next flush. Replace toilet flappers periodically to assure that water does not run for long periods after flushing the toilet. Newer low-flow toilets conserve more water than older models. Replacing an old toilet with a low-flow unit saves water during flushing. However, there is another option when replacing a toilet is too expensive.
Adding a large slender plastic bottle filled with water to the toilet tank can save gallons of water each day. Place rocks in the bottom of the bottle before filling it with water. Make sure the container is narrow enough so that it does not sit against any moving parts inside of the tank. This simple, inexpensive fix will save on average, three gallons of water per flush. Call a plumber to find out more about installing a water-efficient toilet.
Wash Large Loads When Doing Laundry Or Using The Dishwasher
It may be tempting to wash small loads of laundry and dishes several times a week, but this practice also wastes water and increases utility costs. Wait until there is a full load of dishes or clothing before running dishwashers and laundry machines. It is possible to save up to four gallons per dishwashing cycle and over 30 gallons per laundry cycle by washing full loads.
Save Water In The Shower
One of the easiest ways to save water when showering is to take shorter showers. It’s easy to get into the shower and lose track of time. The comfort of a shower makes it a comfortable place to think and yes, sing. Setting a timer before going into a shower is an excellent way to be more efficient and save water. Creating a good lather and washing the entire body and then quickly rinsing is another way to reduce time in the shower.
The low-flow showerhead is a practical and popular solution for saving water. Low-flow showerheads work by using aeration or individual streams of water dispensed in a way that provides adequate water pressure and a steady flow of water. This way, you can clean yourself well while reducing waste.
Replace Old Appliances With Energy-Efficient Models
Appliances with the Energy Star designation are built to save energy. Energy-efficient appliances can help lower water usage and can also lower the cost of electricity or gas necessary for heating water. A third party rates Energy Star appliances, so homeowners know that they will get the energy-savings they expect.
Call Robinson Plumbing When You Need Expert Plumbing Services
These are just a few ways to reduce water costs at home. However, they can result in significant savings in utility costs and in conserving water, an essential natural resource.
For reliable plumbing services, contact Robinson Plumbing, one of the Lehigh Valley’s most trusted plumbing companies.
Our plumbing services range from water leak detection and repairs, clogged drains, to the installation of water-efficient plumbing fixtures. For any plumbing repairs that you may require, we always offer a wide range of solutions whenever possible. This way, you can choose the option that works best for your budget and family.
We are proud to offer the best and most affordable plumbing services in the area. All of our plumbers have the proper licenses and experience to ensure your satisfaction. All of our work is guaranteed. Give Robinson Plumbing a call today to schedule a free estimate.
Call us today at (610) 351-9889 or contact us for any questions that you might have!