Anywhere we regularly use water, there is also that good chance there is something we can do to reduce our usage. There are actually three areas in the home where we can make changes with the most impact: the kitchen, the bathroom, and the garden.
If you are looking for minor ways you can save money and at the same time, help the environment, then you should put these great tips into practice (and let your whole household do, too!).
IN THE KITCHEN
Upgrade to a water-smart dishwasher. If you have an older dishwasher, then it is high time you replace your existing model and shop for a new one with water-efficiency in mind. You can also opt for a dishwasher that is energy-efficient to save more money on each cycle.
Use a dishwasher. Some people prefer washing dishes by hand but that only takes more effort. Not only that but washing dishes by hand also takes more water! When you use the dishwasher, however, you just have to wait until you have a full load to start a cycle.
Favour the trash can, not your garbage disposal. A garbage disposal is a great tool if you want to get rid of certain smelly items that you want to be gone immediately. However, it also requires a great amount of water to work. If certain wastes can go in the compost or in the trash, then put them there and save water.
Go low-flow. You can always upgrade the faucets in your kitchen sinks.
IN THE BATHROOM
Go low-flow here, too. Older low-flow shower heads might not fit your taste, but there are newer state-of-the-art models nowadays that offer a satisfying shower experience at a fraction of the flow rate. What is even better is that the experts at Hayes Plumbing can certainly help you with all your needs!
Be a faucet hawk!
When in the bathroom, be sure to run the water ONLY when necessary. This means that the faucet should be turned off while you brush your teeth. When someone shaves, be sure to put the stopper in the sink or use a bowl to save water.
More showers, fewer baths. Filling the tub would usually require about 30 gallons of water. When you have a ten-minute shower, on the other hand, you will only need about 25 gallons of water with the standard shower head. If you are using a low-flow shower head, then a ten-minute shower will only need about 20 gallons.
Inspect for toilet leaks. Unbeknownst to you, your toilet tank might be leaking into the bowl. This can add up to major water waste over time. Be sure to try this test: have a few drops of colouring food into the toilet tank and wait for an hour. If you see the colour seeping into the bowl, then you have a leak.
IN THE GARDEN
Reuse your water. When watering your plants, it is best to use recycled water. You can salvage a bucket of water per day by placing an empty bucket when you shower. You can save more by setting up a rain barrel just beneath your downspout. Even the water used when you boil or rinse vegetables can be returned to the soil!
