10 Ways to Celebrate Water Conservation Month
Water is a popular topic during the month of April. From seasonal discussions about April showers to the ways we celebrate “Water Conservation Month,” this natural element is something that takes the spotlight all month long.
Naturally, as a homeowner, one of the most important things you can do for your home is conserve water. Water conservation not only helps the environment, but it reduces both waste and energy use within your home. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, saving water lowers energy demand, which in turn helps prevent air pollution. Talk about benefits!
So, what do you say? Ready to honor Water Conservation Month by taking charge of your home’s most underappreciated natural resource? Here are 10 ways you can save water, protect your plumbing system, and help the planet in the process.
10 Ways to Conserve Water
1. Turn water off while shaving or brushing teeth
Many of us have a bad habit of letting the water run as we shave or brush our teeth. Alternative? Before brushing, fill a glass with water and wet your brush in the glass. If shaving, fill the sink with warm water and dip your razor in when needed.
2. Check toilets for leaks
Concerned your toilet may be leaking? Try this: Place a few drops of food coloring in the water tank above your toilet. If the color ends up in the toilet bowl, you may have a leak (which means you’re wasting water all day long).
3. Take shorter showers
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, a typical shower uses between 10 and 25 gallons of water. Cut your shower in half and your water savings will be huge.
4. Cut back on lawn watering
Do you water your lawn regularly? It may not be necessary. Try stepping on your grass and then lift your foot. Does the grass spring back? If so, your lawn is well maintained and doesn’t need watering.
5. Install a low-flow showerhead
Low-flow showerheads are an ideal way to cut back on your water use. Switch to a low-flow showerhead and you can cut back your water consumption by up to 40%!
6. Take a bath
Ahh. Is there anything more relaxing after a long day then a warm bath? Instead of letting your shower water run for 20 minutes and wasting gallons of water, fill your tub halfway and take a bath instead! (Half-way being the key factor here.)
7. Recycle indoor water
You can re-use indoor water (think water glasses lying around, half-full water bottles, pots filled with water in the sink, etc.) and use them to water outdoor plants or flowers.
8. Checks pipes and faucets for leaks
Have you been hearing a drip, drip? Check that your faucets and pipes aren’t leaking. Even small drips can waste gallons of water each day.
9. Run dishwasher only when it’s full
One full dishwasher cycle can use between four to six gallons of water (Energy Star units use closer to four gallons). Wait until yours is full before running a cycle, and you’ll save on water. If you’re considering purchasing a new dishwasher, choose one that is Energy Star rated for optimal efficiency.
10.Plant drought-resistant plants in your garden
Headed for a hot summer? If your local weather station is predicting a drought this season, plant drought-resistant plants in your garden that don’t need water. Aloe is one great option that is known to thrive in dry, hot climates.
Thirsty for More Water Saving Ideas?
If you have questions on home water conservation, or you need plumbing service for a leaky faucet, running toilet, or more, give the ARS team a call today. We are skilled and experienced in all things water and plumbing, and we are more than happy to help repair or replace any plumbing issue in your home. Call us today at 866.399.2885 or schedule your appointment online.
