According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, each American uses an average of 82 gallons of water a day at home. Add up the amount of water you will need to fill your pool and water your lawn this summer, and you’ll understand why you have to pay for a high water bill at the end of the month. To help you lower your total household water consumption and save money, follow these simple yet effective water-saving tips:
Turn off your taps properly
Sometimes, dripping faucets occur not because of leaks but forgetting to turn off the fixture properly. The Environmental Protection Agency says faucets that drip at the rate of one drip per second can waste more than 3,000 gallons per year. That is equivalent to the amount of water needed to take more than 180 showers! After brushing your teeth or washing your face, make a conscious effort to close your tap properly. This will prevent water from running needlessly, saving you money on your next water bill.
Fix leaks as they occur
Plumbing leaks are one of the common causes of a skyrocketing water bill. According to the EPA, neglected household leaks can waste as much as 10,000 gallons of water every year. By immediately fixing leaks like dripping faucets, worn toilet flappers, and leaking valves, you can help prevent expensive water loss and damages to your home. If you are not familiar with the process of repairing a plumbing leak, it would be best to ask for the help of a licensed and skilled plumber.
Upgrade your showerheads
Aside from causing you great inconvenience at home, using old, worn-out showerheads can also significantly increase your total household water consumption. Unless fixed or replaced, a leaky showerhead can waste more than 500 gallons of water per year in your home. Consider installing a low-flow showerhead to lower your water bills. This water-saving device is available in most hardware stores and is very easy to install.
Prevent build-ups in your drains
While a clogged drain may seem like a minor plumbing problem, it can easily escalate into a full-blown plumbing emergency. One way to preserve the good working condition of your house drains is by preventing pipe clogs and buildups. Avoid throwing food items in your garbage disposal that are hard to break as they usually cause blocked drains.
Have your house plumbing inspected regularly
Another important plumbing tip you should keep in mind is to have your system regularly checked by a pro. You won’t always be able to detect issues in your plumbing system until it has become a full-blown emergency. Working with a licensed plumbing contractor will help you prevent expensive future system repairs and replacements.
Take advantage of 24/7 plumbing services in your local area
Do not wait for your plumbing problem to get worse; ask for professional help right away. When looking for a plumbing company, always hire one that is nearest your home location. That will ensure you a fast and efficient service response whenever dealing with a plumbing emergency. Have a trusted local plumber on your speed dial now!
