November 1, 2016

Everyone could use a little more room in the budget. You might cut back on grocery costs or shave down the entertainment fund a little. Maybe you’re saving for that TV you want, or maybe you’re just squirreling away an emergency fund. Either way, finding new ways to save money is always a plus.

And when you take a look at your water bill each month, you may be thinking it looks a little too high. But how can you conserve water and, in turn, save money? For four ways you can cut down your water bill, read on.

Take More Efficient Showers

Showering is a fast, easy way to get clean, and some people aren’t fond of traditional tub bathing. But showering can account for around 30% of all water usage in the household, so it’s a fine area to curtail your water use.

Cut Back on Shower Times

Some people already take impossibly fast showers, but others may relish the hot spray early in the morning. If you like to linger a little while in the shower, consider cutting a few minutes off your regular shower time. Showering with a regular showerhead can use five to ten gallons of water per minute, so working fast can conserve several gallons of water.

Install a Low-Flow Showerhead

If you’re not fond of rushing through your shower, consider installing a low-flow showerhead. Doing so can reduce your water usage by as much as 40%.

Only Turn On the Water to Rinse

For some, this may not be the most appealing idea. But if you’re committed to saving water to shrink your expenses, consider only turning on the shower to rinse. Turn it off whenever you’re soaping up your hair or lathering on your body wash.

Cut Back on General Water Usage

While shorter showers and low-flow showerheads can save gallons of water, you can conserve water in some of your other everyday activities.

Don’t Keep the Faucet Running While You Brush Your Teeth

Once you’ve doused the toothpaste on your toothbrush, turn off the faucet. Leave it off while you scrub those pearly whites, and only turn it on when you need to rinse your mouth and toothbrush. Unnecessarily leaving the faucet on for a couple of minutes can waste two to four gallons of water.

Keep Cold Water in the Fridge

If you keep a pitcher of cold water in the fridge, you won’t have to leave the faucet running while you wait for the water to get cold. You could also freeze bottles of water and let them melt when you need them. However, if you have limited space in your fridge and freezer, the best option is to simply use ice cubes to cool down that refreshing glass of water.

Implement More Effectual Dishwashing

No one likes to wash dishes. However, there are a few ways to save water while doing your least favorite chore.

Don’t Hand-Wash Your Dishes

If you’ve stuffed everything you can into the dishwasher, leave the extra dishes and pots alone. To avoid running several gallons down the sink, wait until the next dishwasher load. Granted, some dishes and pans need to be hand-washed. That cast-iron skillet is not going in the dishwasher. But for all those dishwasher-safe bowls and plates, let the dishwasher do the work.

Run a Full Load

When you do run the dishwasher, be sure it isn’t half full. Try and wait until the dishwasher is stuffed to avoid wasting water.

Use the Microwave or Stove to Heat Dishwashing Water

If there are a few dishes that need to be hand-washed, consider heating up your dishwashing water in the microwave or on the stove. This may be a fairly inconvenient option, but again, if you’re dedicated to conserving water and cutting utility costs, this can save a couple of dozen gallons of water a month. Like cold water, waiting for the tap water to get hot can waste a few gallons each time.

Maintain Your Plumbing System

Other than the leaky faucet you need to fix, you may be tempted to put your plumbing out of your mind. But maintaining your entire plumbing system can save you more money than you think.

Insulate Your Pipes

If you keep your pipes properly insulated, your water can heat up faster, and you won’t have to let your water run as long while you wait for it to heat up.

Check for Leaks

Checking for leaks may seem like obvious advice, but it is still important. Also, not all leaks are as noticeable as that puddle beneath your kitchen sink. Check around faucets and toilets for signs of water. Inspect the pipes beneath sinks and keep an eye out for any strange puddles.

You can also check your toilet for internal leaks. Put food coloring or a dye tablet in the tank, then wait for a half an hour without flushing. Once the time is up, check to see if any of the dyed water has leaked into the bowl. If so, you’ve got a leak on your hands.

Call a Professional

If you do find any plumbing issues or simply want more advice for saving water, call Smedley Service. They can make the proper repairs and take a look at the rest of your plumbing to ensure everything is in good working order. They can also make some recommendations for maximum water efficiency in your home.

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