Getting pinched for not wearing green on St. Patrick’s Day can quickly irritate many people. While this tradition only lasts for one day per year, homeowners can feel a similar frustration every month when they pay their bills, especially a high water bill.
This St. Patrick’s Day, consider the many symbolic meanings of green and take refuge in the fact that at least two meanings of green can offer homeowners some relief. A greener home will save them some green! Here are tips from local plumbers to help homeowners save water and money on water costs.
Turn Off the Water Whenever Possible
tap water There are usually plenty of opportunities to reduce water usage by identifying bad habits that waste water and instead practicing good water-saving habits. Here are some easy habit changes that can save water and money:
- Shut off the water when possible, like while shaving or brushing one’s teeth.
- Wait until there are full loads of clothing and dishes before starting a load in the washer or dishwasher.
- Don’t water the yard on rainy days.
- Turn off the water between rinsing dishes instead of letting water constantly flow.
- Fix leaks around the house as soon as they are noticed.
Water-Saving Plumbing Fixtures
Another effective way to save water is to install low-flow plumbing fixtures. While changing some habits around the home can lead to substantial savings, the best method is to get plumbing fixtures on the same page. By installing water-saving fixtures, saving water happens continuously when using the plumbing as usual.
Some examples of water-saving plumbing fixtures that save water and money are low-flow showerheads, faucets, and toilets. Water-saving toilets use around 1.6 gallons per flush instead of 3 to 7 gallons per flush with older toilets. These fixtures are an excellent investment for any home. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), households can use at least 20% less water by installing water-efficient fixtures and appliances.
Be Cautious About What Gets Flushed
toilet Toilets can be a great source of savings on water bills or a huge liability. A low-flow toilet will reduce water usage significantly, but a clogged or malfunctioning toilet can waste water. When toilets clog, they must be flushed multiple times to unclog and force everything down the drain, wasting water. Faulty toilets can also run and waste a significant amount of water. Homeowners should contact a plumber if their toilet is malfunctioning and try to prevent clogs and the waste they cause by discarding certain items in the trash. Toilet paper is the only thing that should be flushed. Don’t flush things like:
- Cotton balls and cotton swabs
- Feminine hygiene products
- Wipes
- Paper towels
- Diapers
About Plumbing & Cooling Nerds
Plumbing & Cooling Nerds provides Naples, FL, residents, and the surrounding communities with the latest solutions to their plumbing issues. They offer an upfront pricing guarantee, fully stocked trucks, and a membership plan. Call them today for toilet repair and replacement or kitchen plumbing services.
