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Whether we all realize it or not, everyone is wasting water in some capacity. Though we can’t completely eliminate all water waste, we absolutely can make an impactful increase in water saved. And, this all starts at home. Ten percent of American homes waste 90 gallons of water on a daily basis. This is, for most people, an unknowing act; so, we are here to help you understand the source of your wasted water, and what you can do to fix it! Here’s how to save water in your household.
Taking Baths and Long Showers
17.2 gallons of water. That’s a lot of water, and that is how much water you are using when you take an 8-minute shower. Try shortening your showers when you can! 30 gallons of water. That is how much water it takes to fill the average bathtub. If you regularly take baths, think about switching to showering, you’ll save a lot of water and also save on your water bill!
Washing Dishes with Running Water
Instead of using a constant stream of water to wash the residue off of your dinner dishes, try filling your kitchen sink with water and soap. You can then soak your dishes to wash them off. A huge plus--your dishes won’t take as long to clean!
Running Water While You Brush Your Teeth
There’s a simple rule to remember here--if the toothbrush is in your mouth, the water should not be running. Kick the water-wasting habit of leaving the faucet on while brushing, there really is no need to keep it on!
Leaky Pipes
Now, we recognize this list item is not as easy to detect or fix, but leaky faucets are a common water waster. The average American household can leak more than 10,000 gallons of water per year. Toilets, hoses, faucets, and washing machines are the common leaking culprits, so keep an eye out for pooling water, damp spots, and mold as these signs indicate you have a leaking pipe. If you see any of these symptoms, call an experienced plumber here at Green Planet Plumbing. We will locate and seal your leak in no time, because the longer your pipes leak, the more water they waste.
Using Your Toilet as a Trash Can
A third of your household's indoor water consumption results from toilet use. Five to seven gallons of water are wasted each time you flush a tissue or a feminine product down the toilet. Additionally, flushing foreign objects down your toilet can damage to your pipes. Prevent water waste and a potential clogged pipe by only flushing toilet paper down your toilet.
Conventional Showerheads and Toilets
Conventional toilets and showerheads are big contributors to wasted water in your house. The best way to combat this water-wasting habit is to invest in low-flow toilets and showerheads. According to the MWRA (Massachusetts Water Resources Authority), if you replace a toilet that uses 3.5 gallons per flush with a toilet using 1.6 gallons per flush, you have the ability to reduce your water consumption by 54%.
If your toilet was installed, or built, before 1994, it needs replacing. Otherwise, it’s up to you when you should replace your toilet, but the water you can save by installing low-flow products is well worth the replacement!
Half-Full Laundry Loads
The highest efficiency washing machines use 15-30 gallons of water during a single wash cycle. Wait to do laundry until you have enough for a full load. This eliminates the need for multiple loads during the week, saving hundreds of gallons of water per month.
If you’re ready to save water reach out here at Green Planet Plumbing, or give us a call at (206) 207-7625.