Conserving water at home not only helps save this precious resource but also helps you save money. Here are 8 simple ways to save water and your wallet!
- Fix any Leak: When starting out it’s important to check for any leaky faucets, toilets, appliance, or sprinklers. Leaks vary in amount, but they can account for a lot of wasted water over time.
- Turn off the water when brushing your teeth: According to the EPA, this simple act may save more than 200 gallons of water in a single month.
- Use less water when doing laundry: Your washing machine can swallow gallons of water, so make sure you use it wisely. Wait until you have enough clothing for a full load of laundry before starting the washer. If you need to wash a small load separately, adjust the water level on your machine accordingly.
- Take shorter showers: As reported by the EPA, if you shower for five minutes or less you will use about 10 to 15 gallons of water. Compare that number with baths, which use up to 70 gallons of water.
- Practice smart lawn watering: Water your lawn at optimal times of the day and make sure your sprinkler system is watering the lawn and not the sidewalk. Early morning or after sunset is best because the water won’t evaporate.
- Fill the dishwasher: Wait until you have a full dishwasher to run the machine. This will not only save water but also electricity. If you just need one item, a quick hand wash will use less water than running the dishwasher with just a few items in it.
- Don’t leave the water running while hand washing your dishes: If you wash your dishes by hand, fill the sink halfway and scrub your dishes while the faucet is off. Finish by rinsing them off quickly with a spray device or a pan of water.
- Purchase water-efficient appliances: If you have the means purchase energy-efficient appliances like faucets, showerheads, laundry machines, toilets, and dishwashers. This can go a long way in limiting the amount of water you use a year and you save you not only on your water bill but also on your electricity bill!