First Tip to Saving Water And Money
Let’s start with the simplest and most obvious tip: turn off the tap when you don’t need it. Did you know that by turning off the water while brushing your teeth, you can save up to 8 gallons of water daily if you brush twice daily? Similarly, if you turn off the tap while shaving, assuming you shave five times a week, you can save 10 gallons per shave, totaling 5,700 gallons of water per year. Like saving money or losing weight, energy and water savings accumulate gradually. Every drop saved adds up.
Dishwashing Tip for Saving Money
Another water-saving tip involves your dishwasher. In the past, dishwashers used up to 15 gallons of water in a single cycle. Newer models, on the other hand, are designed with a focus on saving water efficiency. Full-sized dishwashers, regulated by the Department of Energy, now use only 5 gallons of water per cycle. Moreover, an Energy Star-approved dishwasher consumes merely 3.5 gallons per cycle. Using your dishwasher instead of handwashing saves you both water and money.
New Habits for Saving Water
Creating new habits regarding your water usage is another effective way to save water. Studies suggest that it takes an average of 66 days for a new habit to become second nature. However, the time required varies depending on the individual and the behavior. Establishing new water-saving habits in your daily routine may take two to eight months.
It’s the Law
Installing water and energy-efficient appliances and fixtures can result in substantial savings. Did you know homeowners can save as much as 20 percent on their monthly bills by saving water and using energy-efficient options? The Energy Policy Act (EPAct) mandates that all toilets sold use 1.6 gallons per flush (GPF) or less in the United States. This regulation, effective since 1994, has significantly contributed to water conservation. Moreover, the EPAct has also set standards for showerheads and faucets.
In California, the law requires the installation of water-efficient plumbing fixtures. If you own a house or commercial structure in California and your toilet uses more than 1.6 gallons per flush, you must replace it with a more efficient model. By replacing your inefficient toilet with a WaterSense-approved toilet, you can save approximately 13,000 gallons of water per year, translating to $130 in water costs. The savings from a new toilet can offset the cost in less than two years.
Where Else Can We Save?
Toilets aren’t the only fixtures that can lead to substantial savings. By replacing old faucets and fixtures with WaterSense-labeled models, you can save up to $250 over a faucet’s lifetime in energy and water costs. Although fixtures can last many years and still function well, older models often use excessive water. Federal standards established in 1994 dictate that bathroom faucets should not exceed 1.2 gallons per minute (GPM), while showerheads should not surpass 2.0 GPM.
Look For WaterSense Models
Regarding showerheads, people often label many WaterSense models as “low flow,” but a more accurate and fitting description is “high efficiency.” According to energy.gov, WaterSense-labeled showerheads are equal to or even better than traditional ones. By replacing your showerheads with WaterSense-labeled models, you can save up to $70 on energy and water costs annually. Additionally, a family can conserve over 2,700 gallons of water per year.
Save On Your Bathroom Makeover
Embarking on a bathroom makeover by installing new WaterSense-labeled faucets, toilets, and showerheads can pay for itself in just one year. Although costs may vary depending on the fixtures you choose, the key is to save money while conserving water. Take your time to plan your bathroom makeover and involve your family in the process. Take action before something breaks. Stay ahead of the game and make your bathroom makeover a fun and rewarding experience for everyone.
Other Tips To Maximize Water Savings
In addition to replacing toilets, faucets, and showerheads with WaterSense-labeled options, there are other ways you can maximize water savings in your home. Consider installing aerators on your faucets, which can reduce water flow without sacrificing pressure. These simple attachments mix air with the water, giving the illusion of a strong flow while using less water. Another tip is to fix any leaks promptly. A dripping faucet or a running toilet can waste significant water over time. Regularly check your plumbing fixtures and repair leaks to prevent water wastage.
WaterSense Outdoor Fixtures Are Available Too
Additionally, be mindful of outdoor water usage. Opt for WaterSense-labeled sprinkler heads or irrigation systems to ensure efficient lawn or garden watering. Water your plants during the early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation. By incorporating these additional water-saving tips and utilizing WaterSense-labeled products throughout your home, you can further reduce your water consumption and positively impact your wallet and the environment.
Saving Water Leads to a Better Future
In conclusion, homeowners and the environment benefit from the worthwhile endeavor of saving water and money. By implementing the WaterSense tips mentioned in this blog post, you can significantly impact your monthly bills and water conservation efforts. Remember, small changes add up over time, and with the right habits and efficient fixtures, you can achieve substantial savings while contributing to a more sustainable future.
Need Assistance in Your Makeover?
If you’re ready to retrofit your home with new WaterSense-labeled faucets, toilets, and showerheads, you can count on Murrieta Plumbing for assistance and innovative ideas. Our dedicated team of plumbing experts strives to provide you with the value and expertise you deserve.
