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WATER
WATER MONEY SAVING & BUDGETING TIPS
Water has become more costly and scarce over the past several years, but most of our habits were formed when water was “cheap” and we were not concerned with conserving. However, today, using less water is wise from both an environmental and budget perspective. Under the “Appliances” heading ways to minimize water use in washers and dishwashers was discussed. Below are additional savings tips for everyday use.
1. Saving on indoor water usage.
a. Install low-
b. Install faucet aerators to restrict flow.
c. If you do not have new low flush toilets, reduce the amount of water used by your toilet. If your toilet tank has a floating ball and arm, bend the arm down so when the water fills the tank after flushing it will fill it to a lower level by shutting off the inflow valve quicker. If you have a valve without a ball and arm, either adjust it to fill to a lower level by using a screw driver to adjust when it shuts off the water inflow after flushing, or adjust the slide mechanism on the side of the valve to adjust water flow level.
d. Repair leaky faucets, shower heads and toilets. These leaks can cause the loss of thousands of gallons of water a year.
e. Take more showers and fewer baths and lessen the amount of time in the shower.
f. When you fill your bathtub, do not run water before closing the drain. Even though all the water will be cold at the start, you can still get the desired temperature while not wasting any water.
g. Don’t leave the water running when brushing your teeth, shaving, washing dishes, washing hands, rinsing dishes, etc. Close the drain in your sink or put the plug in the drain, and just fill the sink with the amount of water you need.
h. Restrict the amount of water used with food waste disposers.
i. Do not use running water to defrost food.
j. If you are boiling items like eggs, save the water and use it for your houseplants. Also, consider putting a container under the faucet when waiting for the water to get hot, and use this water to water your plants or for other uses.
2. Saving on outdoor water usage.
a. You can use less water if you water your yard early in the morning when the water will not be evaporated by the sun. Also, don’t water your yard when it is windy since there will be greater evaporation, and much of the water will be blown away rather than reach its target.
b. Water your yard slowly since water applied too fast will just run off.
c. Mulch your beds so they retain moisture and require less water.
d. Make sure any automated sprinkler systems do not go off when it is raining, or when no irrigation is required because of recent rains. Install a rain sensor to shut of the system if it has recently rained. Only water when your plants and grass show signs of needing it.
e. Repair leaky outdoor faucets and hoses.
f. Use a broom rather than a hose to clean walks, patios, etc.
g. Reduce the size of your lawn and use native shrubs that require less water.
h. Cover your pool to reduce evaporation and maintain heat.
Heating hot water is often the third largest energy expense in your home. There are two ways to save. Use less hot water or heat it more efficiently.
1. Using less hot water.
a. Refer to the tips on using less water when running both your washer and dishwasher that were presented under the “Appliance” heading, as well as the tips presented above.
b. Make sure when you turn on your one lever faucet it is moved over to the cold side, so hot water is not drawn down unless required.
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