Let’s talk water. It keeps our homes running, brings life to our gardens, and provides a refreshing shower after a long day. But let’s face it, we all take water for granted. The good news is that saving water at home is easier than you might think. By making some changes, you can help the planet and see a notable difference in your water bills.
Kitchen: Water-Wise Cooking and Cleaning
The kitchen is a prime spot for water waste. That leaky faucet? It’s annoying, and it’s costing you. A slow drip wastes gallons of water over time. When it comes to dishes, don’t let the water run while you’re scrubbing. Fill one sink with soapy water and the other with rinse water. If you have a dishwasher, run it only when it’s full. You can also just scrape plates instead of pre-rinsing. It’s a myth that you need to thoroughly rinse before loading the dishwasher.
Cooking? Steaming vegetables uses less water than boiling. And when you do boil, save that water! It’s perfect for watering your plants or even starting a soup. Speaking of plants, get a compost bin for kitchen scraps. This reduces the need for your garbage disposal, which uses a surprising amount of water.
Bathroom: Transforming Your Water Habits
The bathroom is another water-wasting culprit. Limit the number of long, luxurious showers you take, taking shorter ones instead. Install low-flow showerheads and faucets. They’re readily available and make a noticeable difference.
Toilet flushing is another big one. Old toilets can use gallons per flush. Upgrade to a high-efficiency model. Or, if you’re not ready for a new toilet, place a water-filled bottle or specialized toilet dam in the tank to reduce the amount of water used per flush. And remember, the toilet is not a trash can! Don’t flush tissues, cotton balls, or other items better suited for the garbage.
Turn off the water while brushing your teeth. It’s a simple habit that saves gallons. The same goes for shaving. Fill the sink instead of letting the water run.
Saving Water At Home: Laundry
Laundry day doesn’t have to be a water-intensive affair. Wash full loads whenever possible. If you must wash a small load, adjust the water level on your machine. Modern washing machines are designed to be more efficient, but you can still optimize their performance.
Try switching to cold water washes. They’re just as effective for most loads and save energy and water. Also, remember to check your washing machine hoses regularly for leaks.
Outdoors: Water-Smart Landscaping
Your yard can use a lot of water. Water your lawn deeply and infrequently. This encourages deeper root growth, making your lawn more drought-resistant. Water in the early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation.
Consider xeriscaping, which involves using drought-tolerant plants. Mulch around your plants to retain moisture. Install a rain barrel to collect rainwater for watering plants. And don’t forget to check your sprinkler system for leaks and adjust it to water only your lawn, not the sidewalk.
Saving water at home requires small, consistent changes. It’s about being mindful of your water usage and reducing waste. Doing this will create a more sustainable planet for yourself and future generations.
FAQs About Saving Water At Home
How much water can I really save by fixing a leaky faucet?
A slow drip can waste up to 20 gallons of water per day. A faster drip wastes even more. Over a year, that’s thousands of gallons!
Are low-flow showerheads really effective?
Absolutely! They reduce water usage by up to 50% without sacrificing water pressure.
Is it worth upgrading to a high-efficiency toilet?
Yes, it is. High-efficiency toilets use a lot less water per flush, saving you money on your water bill.
How can I tell if my toilet has a leak?
Place a few drops of food coloring in the toilet tank. If the color appears in the bowl without flushing, you have a leak.
What are some drought-tolerant plants I can use in my landscaping?
Consider plants like succulents, lavender, sage, and native grasses. Consult your local nursery for plants that thrive in your climate.
Jamie Schaefer, Professional Home Inspector, provides inspection services to The Villages, Florida, and the surrounding cities and towns in Central Florida and the New York Metropolitan Area. If you’re buying or selling a property, contact us to request an appointment.