Easy Ways to Save Water at Home
As more people become aware of their environmental footprints, water conservation is a topic of interest. From taking shorter showers to waiting until you have a full load to use your washing machine, there are numerous ways to save water at home. Here are four easy and practical examples.
Inspect Your Plumbing Regularly
Leaking faucets and showerheads may seem insignificant. However, over time, the drips add up to gallons of wasted water. Make sure all leaks and plumbing issues are found and repaired before more water goes to waste.
Save Water at Home by Taking Shorter Showers
If you’re looking to conserve water, take shorter showers. The typical showerhead uses 2 to 5 gallons of water each minute. If you take a long time to shower, you may be using more water than necessary. To save even more, turn off the tap while washing your hair or shaving. You can also invest in water-saving showerheads that will help you use less water when bathing.
Watch How Often You Flush
Teach your family to only flush toilet paper. Matches, wet wipes, paper towels, and facial tissues should never be flushed down the toilet. The typical toilet uses almost 2 gallons per flush. If family members are flushing any time they need to toss a tissue in the trash, you could be using a lot of unnecessary water. Throw these items in the garbage bin instead of flushing them down the toilet.
Dishwashing and Laundry Tips
If you use a dishwasher or a laundry washing machine, wait until you have a full load to run the machine. Dishwashers use around 6 gallons of water per cycle, while laundry machines use as much as 20 gallons. Restricting the use of these machines until you have a full load will help save lots of water.
If you wash dishes in the sink, turn the tap off to scrub the dishes. Instead of leaving the water running, fill one sink with clean rinsing water and use that to rinse dishes and utensils.
Other Ways to Save Water at Home
To save water at home, here are a few other helpful tips.
- Turn off the tap when you’re brushing your teeth. Only use the water to wet the toothbrush and rinse.
- Install a rain barrel beneath one of the guttering downspouts. You can save rainwater and repurpose it to water the lawn or garden.
Home Inspectors of Middle Tennessee provides home inspection services in and around Nashville. Contact us to schedule an appointment.