Tips to Reduce Water Use

Cutting back on water usage is not just good for the bank. It is good for the environment and can reduce the risk of plumbing damage. Whatever your reason for wanting to conserve water, we have some tips on how to reduce water use. The professionals at Neighborhood Plumbing offer high quality plumbing service and repairs in addition to tips. Our lines are always open if you have any questions, concerns, or want to hire a certified local plumber. Without further delay, here are some easy ways to cut back on your water use.

Check for Leaks

Leaks are much more common than you might like to think. In fact, we, at Neighborhood Plumbing, repair leaks more than many other plumbing issues. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that the average household’s leaks can account for nearly 10,000 gallons of wasted water every year. Worse yet, ten percent of homes have leaks that waste 90 gallons or more every day. These exorbitant numbers are partly due to the fact that there are many fixtures and places where leaks can occur. Toilets, water heaters, appliances, faucets, and just about any pipe in the plumbing system can leak water.
Check for leaks by making a trip throughout your house, looking for water stains, mold, and other signs of leakage on walls and ceilings. Repair any toilets, faucets, or showerheads that are dripping. To look for hidden leaks, pull your water bills from the past year or two and check for an unusual spike. Finally, if you are really suspicious of a leak, then shut off the water supply and keep track of the water meter. If it moves up even though the water supply is turned off, then you may have a leak.

Upgrade Your Plumbing Fixtures and Appliances

Technology is developing rapidly, and plumbing fixtures and appliances are on the train forward as well. There are so many products on the market that can reduce your water usage. These products range from low-flow toilets to water-efficient washing machines and dishwashers. If you have any plumbing fixtures or appliances that are either old or use a lot of water, then consider upgrading to a newer model. The Environmental Protection Agency has a website, WaterSense, with a list of water-efficient products.

Make Good Use of Excess Water

Every drop of water is valuable. Make good use of excess water if you want to cut back on water usage. For example, leftover water from boiling vegetables and other foods can be used to water plants. Likewise, for the last bit of water in the water bottle.

Use Less Water

This one sounds obvious, right? It’s still worth mentioning. Only wash clothes and dishes as you need them. Run full loads of laundry and dishes to save hundreds or even thousands of gallons of water a year. Further, time your showers and limit your baths. We know that long showers and baths can be relaxing, but there are plenty of other soothing activities that do not waste water.