Conserving Water in Your Home

Conserving water is both easy and economical. By using less water on a daily basis, you’ll not only lower your water bills but conserve this valuable natural resource. You don’t need to make significant lifestyle changes to reduce water usage in your Flagstaff home. A few simple changes to your habits and low-cost changes to your plumbing can result in immediate water savings you can enjoy.

Install Low-Flow Fixtures and Aerators

If your home has older plumbing fixtures, they could be using significantly more water than necessary to accomplish everyday tasks. Aging fixtures may use up to two and a half gallons of water per minute, which can add up over the course of a ten- or twenty-minute shower. Replacing your current showerheads with low-flow fixtures can reduce the flow rate during a shower by half or more. Although you are using less water, low-flow showerheads are designed to maintain high water pressure so your comfort won’t suffer. Low-flow showerheads are available at many home improvement and plumbing stores at low cost, so you don’t need to worry about a high-cost plumbing makeover. You can also purchase aerators for your kitchen and bathroom sink faucets. Aerators mix air with the water flow to cut the flow rate in your sink by nearly two gallons per minute without sacrificing water pressure.

Learn to Recognize Leaks

Home leaks can account for up to 90 gallons of wasted water each day. Learning to spot and address leaks can help you conserve water and protect your home from water damage. A sudden spike in your water bill compared with the previous month could be indicative of a leak. If you suspect you may have a running toilet, place a few drops of food coloring into the tank and wait 20 minutes. If color has appeared in the bowl, there is a leak between your toilet’s tank and bowl. Even if you are experiencing a small leak or water problem, call in a plumber to address the issue immediately. Over time, tiny drips and leaks add up into significant water usage and higher utility bills.

Use Water Wisely

Appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines make many chores easier. However, poor usage habits can result in unnecessary water waste. Only run your dishwasher or washing machine when you can clean a full load. If your washing machine features and adjustable water level, reduce the amount of water used when you do wash fewer clothes. If you care for your lawn regularly, install a rain barrel or recycle the water from washing vegetables in your sink to care for your lawn. Using recycled water to care for your lawn or landscaping can cut out nearly 30% of your monthly water consumption.

Are you ready to create a more sustainable household by implementing these simple water conservation techniques? You can learn more about water conservation and how your plumber can help your efforts by clicking through our blog. Visit our website to contact a professional and find out more about our repair, replacement, and upgrade services in Yavapai, Coconino, and Maricopa Counties.