3 Easy Things You Can Do To Save Water at Home

Throughout the country, water conservation has become a way of life. There is a growing recognition that the supply of water is not unlimited. The amount of fresh water available for drinking, irrigation, industry, and other uses must be used as efficiently as possible. Recently, some counties and towns have even implemented restrictions on water use. This week, we’re outlining a few ways to save water at home and reduce your carbon footprint!

Install Rain Sensors on Your Irrigation Systems

Prevent overwatering your plants and eliminate unnecessary water use with this easily installed sprinkler system addition. Our pick is this orbit 57069 sprinkler system from amazon that features a universal design compatible with most sprinkler systems. 

Fix Leaks

On top of causing damage, leaks account for much more water waste than you may realize. The average household’s leaks can account for nearly 10,000 gallons of water wasted annually, and ten percent of homes have leaks that waste 90 gallons or more daily. Common types of leaks found in the home are worn toilet flappers, dripping faucets, and other leaking valves.

Be Mindful of Every Day Water Use

Everyday tasks, such as brushing your teeth or washing a load of laundry, can add up to a lot of water waste over time. Washing machines use around 15-20 gallons of water a load, so make sure that you’re only completing full loads of laundry. Similarly, leaving the water on when brushing your teeth can waste as much as 5 gallons of water. Being mindful and incorporating small changes in water use can add up to a lot of savings over time. 

Conclusion

Are you interested in home improvements to make your house more eco-friendly? Contact us today!

Tips for an Eco-friendly Bathroom

Bathroom remodels are one of the most sought after renovations. A simple update can make a home feel more luxurious. 

Although small in size, the bathroom can also waste more water and energy than other areas of the house. When the time comes to renovate your bathroom, follow these tips, so it is eco-friendly, as well as visually appealing. 

Be Water Conscious

It’s no secret that a lot of water is wasted in the bathroom. Flushing the toilet, taking a shower, drawing a bath, and using the sink each day adds up. Inefficient water fixtures can add up to hundreds of gallons of wasted water each day. Some people are opting to ditch a tub altogether and use the extra space for a beautiful walk-in shower. When selecting new items for the bathroom, pay attention to:

  • Toilets. A conventional toilet uses 1.6 gallons for every flush, but an old model could be using up to 7 gallons per flush, according to the EPA. A low-flow toilet works with less water and has dual flushing options. One button flushes liquids, using under one gallon of water per flush. The second button flushes solid waste, using the full 1.6 gallons per flush.
  • Faucets. Many people leave the water running when brushing their teeth, washing their hands, or washing their face at the sink. Consider motion-sensor faucets to cut back on water waste.
  • Showerheads. When installing a new shower, select an environmentally friendly low-flow showerhead to reduce water usage. Look for the EPA WaterSense Label to be certain you are purchasing water-efficient products. 

Install an Efficient Water Heater

A lot of energy is used to heat water in the home. Replacing the water heater can aid in making your showers and baths more eco-friendly. There are several options to choose from: heat pump water heaters, tankless water heaters, solar water heaters, and condensing storage water heaters can all help to save energy. ENERGY STAR ratings can help you determine which equipment is most efficient.

Choose Eco-Friendly Materials

Eco-friendly materials are not only sustainable, meaning they last a long time, but they also do not harm the environment. Often, eco-friendly materials are renewable or recyclable. Many tile options are eco-friendly. Other eco-friendly materials include glass, metal, bamboo, and cork. You can take it a step further than flooring and cabinetry and opt for eco-friendly towels and shower curtains. 

Install LED Lighting

If you have not brought in LED lighting to your home yet, it’s time to make the switch. ENERGY STAR LED lights use up to 90% less energy than standard bulbs and last at least 15 times longer. 

Opt for VOC-free Supplies

Volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, emit gasses and chemicals into the air. If you have ever gotten a headache from the smell of your cleaner, chances are it was filled with VOCs. Select paint and cleaners that are VOC-free. 

Do you have more tips for becoming more eco-friendly in the bathroom? Let us know in the comments!

 

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