Water is one of life’s most essential resources.
Imagine a day without water: you can’t wash dishes, water the plants, clean the ingredients for your meals, or bathe. Add to that many other activities, and you’ll see just how dependent we are on a constant supply of it.
Modern plumbing and urban planning innovations have made water seem like an infinite resource. However, it’s more finite than what the average person believes. Pollution, wasteful habits, and lack of plumbing maintenance contribute to clean water shortages. News stories about water crises may happen regularly if we don’t act soon.
If you’ve gone this far, it’s time to seriously think about conserving water. Change starts at home, where even small steps can make a big difference.
Here are some clever options you should consider.
- Collect Rainwater
Buying a water tank is a significant investment. But in the long run, it lets you cut costs by making you depend less on your local water supply.
With a water tank, your household directly collects and stores rainwater, a resource that gets wasted down the drain. With some preliminary sanitation, you can use it for various household tasks like washing dishes and cars, watering plants, and cleaning. You can even make it potable after boiling or using a purifier.
Many eco-conscious households have gone this route. Why not give it a try? You can buy water tanks in different sizes and capacities, so you can easily find one that fits your home’s needs.
- Close The Tap When Not In Use
This is obvious, but it’s also something many people forget.
Think of all the instances when you brush your teeth or wash your face. More often than not, you leave the water running. When you always close the tap, you avoid waste and keep your utility bill low. Likewise, if you wash dishes by hand, turn the water off when soaping them.
- Take Shorter Showers
If you love long showers, you should take a closer look at your water bill. Start working on ways to get your regular routine done in shorter, more efficient ways.
But if those long showers are an indulgence for you, keep them that way. The less frequently they’re done, the more you’ll look forward to them, like on weekends.
By taking shorter showers, you reduce water consumption per bath. You also open up more time for other activities in your daily routine, helping you avoid frantic mornings.
- Upgrade Your Toilets
Did you know an old toilet may be responsible for high water consumption? Even if it’s functional, it’s less efficient than newer models. It’s estimated that old toilets use around five to seven gallons of water per flush. You do the math to see how much water you can save in your household every month with a modernized toilet.
Like a water tank, this investment promises great returns on your overall consumption. Upgrade your toilet to manage your water costs better.
- Use The Dishwasher And Washing Machine Only On Full Loads
For homes that use a dishwasher and washing machine, this tip is for you. Never run either of them on a half load. Doing so maximizes your water consumption whenever you use them.
Remember to adjust the water levels if you must do a half load. That way, you don’t use more water than you need.
Like your toilets, you should also consider upgrading dishwashers and washing machines. Modern models are more efficient, using less water and power to do the same tasks as previous ones. Go through your local catalogs to compare prices. That way, you can find one that fits your budget.
- Repair All Leaks
Lastly, take care of all those leaks. Even tiny ones can dent your water bill if left unattended for a long time. They also put your household at risk of contamination and water damage.
Consider using a sealant for minor leaks. Call a plumber if more repairs or replacements are needed.
Take Care Of Your Water Supply
With rapid changes in population and development, clean, usable water is getting scarcer by the second. Fortunately, it's not too late to change your habits and save more water.
Think of it as hitting two birds with one stone. By saving water, you spend less on your utility costs. You also help keep an adequate supply going for future generations. It’s a win-win situation for you, your household, your neighborhood, and the environment.
Start checking your home plumbing and monitoring your water consumption today. Contact the experts for more help.