Water conservation has become an even more pressing issue in recent years. With climate change bringing more droughts, everyone is responsible for being mindful of water consumption. As homeowners, however, water conservation is an environmental choice and a smart financial decision.
By lowering water usage, you preserve resources, save on water bills, and minimize stress and wear on your plumbing system. What are some water-saving practices your household should implement?
Understanding Your Water Bill
What’s Driving Up Your Water Bill?
Often, plumbing issues are the cause of high water bills, especially when there’s a leak. For example, a dripping faucet or a leaky toilet might seem minor but can waste gallons of water in a short amount of time. Inefficient appliances are another common cause, with old toilets and washing machines consuming much more water than newer models. However, perhaps the top driver of high water bills is bad water habits. For instance, leaving the tap running when you’re not using it wastes more water than you realize.
Top Plumbing Tips to Save on Water Bills
1. Check for Leaks Regularly
The Environmental Protection Agency stated household leaks can waste 10,000 gallons of water annually. To save on water bills, check your property for leaks and have them fixed immediately. You can focus on the following fixtures first, as they are the most common ones to have leaks:
- Toilets: Get food coloring, add a few drops to the toilet tank, and wait at least 30 minutes. You’ll know there’s a leak if the color shows up in the bowl.
- Faucets: Inspect the areas under your sinks and around the faucet base for any signs of water buildup. You may also notice a steady drip or constant noise.
- Showerheads: If your showerhead drips after turning off the water, try tightening connections or replacing worn-out parts.
Another way to check for leaks is to study your water meter before and after an hour of not using water. If the reading changes, there’s a leak somewhere.
2. Install Water-Efficient Fixtures
Upgrading to water-efficient fixtures can significantly cut down on water consumption. Here are two options to consider:
- Low-Flow Showerheads and Faucets: These fixtures have flow rates of 2 and 1.5 gallons per minute, respectively, and do not exceed them.
- Dual-Flush Toilets: These toilets let you use a lower water volume for liquid waste and higher for solid waste.
This tip can be a straightforward DIY project, but professional plumbing services can ensure proper and efficient installations and repairs. Remember, faulty plumbing work will only lead to costly damages.
3. Upgrade Your Appliances
Look at your appliances and see if they have WaterSense or Energy Star labels. If not, consider replacing them. Old dishwashers and washing machines, in particular, use a significant amount of water because of their outdated technology or worn-out parts. Switch to newer models, which use less water and are more energy-efficient, to save on your water bill. You can also explore financing options that help you afford an upgrade.
4. Adjust Daily Water Habits
In addition to plumbing upgrades, adjustments to your daily routines can make a big difference. Small daily changes like the following can contribute to noticeable savings on your water bill:
- Take Shorter Showers: Long showers may be relaxing, but try reducing your shower time even by just a few minutes each day.
- Run Full Loads: Only run the dishwasher and washing machine when you have a full load to reduce the number of times you need to use these appliances.
- Turn Off the Tap: Always turn off the tap when you’re not using it, whether while brushing your teeth or scrubbing dishes.
When to Call a Professional
Some plumbing tasks are doable without professional help, provided you have the right tools and enough patience. Tasks like fixing a leaky faucet, unclogging your drain, or replacing a showerhead are generally safe for a DIY approach. However, certain situations call for the expertise of a skilled plumber.
If you’re dealing with persistent leaks, sewer line issues, or any plumbing remodels that require altering the system, call a professional. Additionally, if your home plumbing involves complex systems like water heaters or you have problems with low water pressure, experts can provide accurate diagnoses and solutions.
At Jolly Plumbing, we can help you with all your plumbing needs. Contact us for reliable plumbing services!
Service Area and Coverage
Choosing a local plumber makes a difference in water conservation efforts. A knowledgeable plumber can identify water-saving opportunities unique to your area’s water system and provide tailored advice and maintenance tips. If you live in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, you can count on Jolly Plumbing for convenient and trusted services close to home.
In Summary
You can save on your water bill through a combination of proactive plumbing maintenance and mindful water habits. Regularly check for leaks, upgrade to water-efficient fixtures and appliances, and adjust daily routines. Most importantly, partnering with a local plumbing professional ensures your efforts are well-supported. With a few small changes, water conservation becomes achievable and even more rewarding.
