Here in the U.S., an average family of four uses about 400 gallons of water per day within their home. Saving water not only benefits the environment, but also your water bill. Find out the easiest and most effective ways to conserve water throughout your home this fall.
Turn Off Your Faucets
Never let water run needlessly. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), bathroom faucets run at about two gallons of water a minute. Yet, many homeowners still leave the faucet on as they rinse dishes, brush their teeth or shave. It may seem simple, but breaking this bad habit and turning off the tap whenever it's not directly being used can help save hundreds of gallons a month.
Fix Leaks As Soon As You Find Them
A slow drip from a leaking faucet can waste as much as 20 gallons of water a day. Even worse, a leaky toilet can waste 200 gallons a day. Drips and leaks not only cost you money on your water bill, they can also worsen and cause flooding. Call a plumber if you notice any ongoing drips or leaks. A professional can quickly and safely fix these issues, helping you conserve water and avoid potential water damage from prolonged leaks.
Repurpose Your Water Whenever Possible
Repurposing water may seem cumbersome, but there are many easy ways to avoid wasting a drop. One easy suggestion is to rinse fruits and vegetables over a colander, allowing a bowl to catch the used water underneath. You can then use this water to hydrate your houseplants or your outdoor garden. The same idea applies to the liquid you waste as you wait for water to heat up. Keep a bowl next to your sink to use in situations such as this.
Rethink Your Bathroom Plumbing
The EPA also notes that the bathroom is the site of the greatest indoor water use in the average home - making it the perfect place to reap major water savings. Older toilets can use as much as six gallons per flush, but newer models use significantly less (around 1-2 gallons per flush). Showerheads can also affect your water usage. Look for low-flow showerheads to maximize water pressure while conserving water. Your plumber can seamlessly switch out any bathroom fixture for water-saving models.
David Gray offers complete plumbing services and repairs to homes, condos and commercial offices. Whether you're facing a leak or want to upgrade your plumbing fixtures to conserve more water, call (904) 605-8190 or visit www.davidgrayplumbing.com.