Water conservation is important for several reasons, so any improvements we can make, we certainly should. Whether you want to save money on your utility bills or simply help sustain natural resources, here are the 6 simplest steps you can take that could result in major water savings.
1. Time for a New Toilet
If you can only make 1 change to help reduce water usage in your home, this is the one to do. Did you know, according to the Water Research Foundation, toilets account for approximately 24% of a home’s indoor water consumption? Older toilets can use up to 6 gallons of water per flush, in comparison to the 1.6 gallons or less from newer models. It’s estimated that replacing an old toilet can save up to 13,000 gallons of water annually.
2. Swap the Showerhead
Studies have found that the average home uses 30 gallons of water a day for showers, that’s 20% of the water consumed in a home. WaterSense labeled showerheads are said to use no more than 2 gallons per minute, which could save 2,900 gallons annually.
Shortening your shower by 1 minute can save 550 gallons a year!
3. Fix the Faucets
Faucets in your kitchen and bathrooms account for approximately 19% of indoor water use. Old faucets run between 2.75 – 7 gallons per minute, new federal requirements limit new faucets to 2.2 gallons per minute. WaterSense labeled models can save up to 700 gallons of water annually.
4. Upgrade Your Washer
That ancient washing machines use up to 23 gallons of water per load, some as much as 40 gallons! Energy Star models (10 years and newer) use 13 gallons or less per load, potentially saving you about 3,000 gallons annually.
5. Dated Dishwasher
The Water Research Foundation claims that newer dishwashers use considerably less water. Water consumption per load as dropped from 10 gallons to about 3.5 gallons when using a current Energy Star model.
6. Sprinkle Less
Adjusting your sprinkler schedule can save substantially on your water consumption. Whether you supplement with saved rainwater or simply adjust how long and often your sprinklers run. Inspecting and adjusting your sprinklers can also save from wasted water where it isn’t beneficial. The time of year will also change the water requirements of your lawn and landscaping.
