How to Conserve Water and Save Money at Home

The evening news is full of stories about our drought-ridden country.  Since all we have to do is turn on the tap, wesometimes forget that even though the earth is covered with water, only a fraction of it is drinkable.

Here’s a few tips for conserving water in your home:

• Check for Leaks – Make sure all the pipes and faucets in your home are free from leaks.  A leaky pipe or faucet can waste gallons of water per day.  Check your water meter for leaks by writing down the number on the meter and not using water for at least two hours.  Then go back to your water meter and read it again.  If the readings are different, you have a leak.  Be sure you know how to shut off your outside water valve in case of a leak.

• Install Water-Saving Devices – Toilets use about five to seven gallons per flush.  A water-saving toilet only uses about 1 1/2 gallons per flush.  Low-flow showerheads use less than 2 1/2 gallons of water per minute compared to 5 to 10 gallons when using a regular showerhead.

• Insulate Your Water Pipes – Water will heat up quicker if your pipes are insulated.  This saves water down the drain while we wait for water to heat.  Likewise, insulating your pipes in the winter will help them from freezing and breaking.

• Outside the Home – Placing mulch around your plans and trees helps water from evaporating quickly.  Rather than putting your sprinkler on a timer, water only when your lawn needs it.  Water in the morning when the weather is cooler to allow it to sink into the lawn.  Set up your gutter to collect water from your roof or use discarded water from inside your home (such as fish tank) and use it water your plants and garden.

There are just a few suggestions for conserving water in your home.  Not only will you be doing your part by you will save a lot of money on your water bill.

What suggestions do you have for conserving water?