Water is a pricey resource that costs a lot to heat and treat. If you can make some small changes to conserve your water usage, you could cut your utility costs and use less resources, which is better for the planet. Some of these tips can be done on your own, and some of them are best accomplished with the help of your plumber.
1. Have a Plumber Check for Leaks
A small leak in a toilet, shower or sink could waste dozens of gallons of water every week. Over the course of a year, that adds up to a lot of water. There might even be a leak in your water supply line or in one of your appliances. Have your plumber do a leak check on all of your plumbing fixtures. Fixing the leaks could lower your water bills and extend the lifespan of your plumbing system.
2. Keep the Water Warm
When you want hot water, you probably have to wait a minute or two for the water to turn from cold to warm and finally hot. Just letting that cold and lukewarm water run down the drain is a waste of resources. You could collect it in a bucket and use it for flushing the toilet or watering your garden. You might also consider having your plumber install a water heater blanket if you have a traditional water heater with a tank. The blanket keeps the water hotter and reduces energy usage.
3. Clean or Replace Faucet Aerators
Sometimes, what you need is better water pressure instead of more water. Fixtures such as faucets and shower heads have aerators. They mix in some air with the stream of water to increase the pressure as it leaves the faucet’s head. If the aerators on your faucets and fixtures are clogged, take them off and clean them. Doing this is easy with a vinegar solution, or you could contact a plumbing professional to do it for you. After about five years, it is a good idea to have the aerators replaced.
4. Turn Off the Tap Whenever Possible
Whenever you can, turn off the faucet instead of letting the water run. Whether you are shaving, brushing your teeth or washing your hands, you can do most of the activity without a stream of water running. Turn off the water while you brush your teeth. Apply soap to your hands, rub them together, then turn on the water. Turn off the water while you shave. You could even turn off the water in the shower while you are shampooing your hair and applying soap or body wash to your skin.
