Water conservation is very important. Not only is it an environmentally responsible thing to do, but it also helps to lower your monthly water bills. Follow these simple tips and you’ll be on your way to saving money, and the planet, in no time!

Reduce Water Use in Bathroom

1. Showering

We tend to have longer, hotter showers as the climate gets colder. A four-minute shower can use approximately 20 to 40 gallons of water. By placing a water-efficient shower (which has the potential to save you up to 100 dollars a year) and lessening the time spent in the shower you can spare energy and water.

2. Running Water

Don’t leave the water running as you brush your teeth, shave or wash your dishes. This may seem like an insignificant amount of water to save but every bit of water conserved adds up to an enormous amount over-time!  

3. Leaks

Check for leaks in your plumbing to save water and money – Regularly check your toilet, faucets, and pipes for leaks. Check your water meter before and after a two-hour period when no water is being used. If the meter changes at all, you probably have a leak somewhere.

Reduce Water Use in Kitchen and Laundry Room

4. Dishes

Before running your dishwasher, ensure the appliance is full so you get the most out of the water that’s being used. If you wash the dishes by hand—which is the most ideal way—don’t leave the water running for rinsing. If you have two sinks, fill one with rinse water. Using less dish soap will also decrease the amount of water required to rinse dishes as well.

5. Cooking

Make sure not to defrost frozen foods with running water. Either prepare in advance by putting frozen things in the icebox or refrigerator overnight or defrost them in the microwave. Cooking foods in less water will keep the nutrient value of the food as well.

6. Ensure appliances are at maximum capacity 

Before running any of your water-using appliances, only run the clothes washer when it is full, and use a water-saver cycle if you have one. Adjusting load size for smaller loads and choosing eco-wash options are also good habits to get into. 

7. Consider buying water-saving appliances and devices 

Look for the U.S. EPA’s WaterSense and Energy Star labels when buying dishwashers and clothes washers. Use water-saving showerheads, toilets, and faucet aerators. These labels indicate appliances and plumbing fixtures that save water or energy. Want more information on water-saving products and services? Schedule a free consultation to find out how you can reduce your water use!

Additional Tips

8. Go the Extra Mile

Water conservation day is March 22nd, here are some creative ways you can go even further in your water conservation acts by reducing water waste and recycling water you may otherwise be wasting! Whenever you are taking a shower, don’t misuse the cold water while sitting tight for hot water to reach the showerhead. In a container/ pail, catch that water to use on watering the plants outside, or to flush in your toilet. Additionally, use mulch around trees and shrubs and in garden beds. This greatly reduces the amount of water lost through evaporation. And so reduces the need for watering. You can also use the water from your roof downspouts for watering your garden and flower beds.