Trying to save some water? This guide breaks down how you can do so based on each of your plumbing fixtures.
If the water bill is the scariest bill you open each month, it is time to start looking for ways to decrease your water usage. Not only is this a smart move for your wallet, it is also a good environmental move. Conserving clean water is an ecologically sound choice, and there are actually ways to decrease your water usage with almost every fixture in your home. Read on for three big ones to get you started.
Washing Machine
Your washing machine is a potential source for a lot of water use. If your washer is old, or if it isn’t an Energy Star appliance, it may be time to consider replacing it. Newer models use less energy and less water. The also come equipped with a sensor that determines the load size and adjusts the amount of water as needed. If you can’t upgrade to a new washer, being aware of the load setting your using is a good step in the meantime. If you set the washer to the wrong load size for the amount of clothes, you could be using way more water each time than you actually need to.
Dishwasher
The dishwasher is another appliance that can be a water hog, especially if it is older or not an Energy Star model. An Energy Star dishwasher will use about 15% less water on average than a standard dishwasher. They also tend to use less energy and make less noise – both good benefits in addition to saving water. Regardless of if it is an Energy Star model or not, break the habit of running partial or overfilled loads. Partial loads waste water, as you could be cleaning the dishes you’ll run in another partial load later. Overfilling the dishwasher often means that the dishes don’t all get cleaned, which means you’ll have to wash them again in the dishwasher or, more likely, under the running water in the sink.
Sinks
Finally, the sinks in your home tend to be another major water user. As mentioned above, washing dishes by hand under running water uses a lot of water. If you do wash dishes in the sink, soak them in warm soapy water and then scrub them there, rather than scrubbing them under the running faucet. Speaking of faucets, leaks from them could be costing you a ton of water, without you even realizing it. Faucet leaks can pop up at the base, head, or handles, so check each one out thoroughly and repair those leaks as soon as possible. Finally, consider installing an aerator on each faucet. This is a great way to decrease the water flow without decreasing the water pressure.
Get in Touch With B&D Today!
Dealing with any plumbing concerns that require a professional to step in? Struggling with an absolute plumbing emergency that can’t wait? Let B&D Plumbing know. B&D Plumbing Inc. services the greater Washington D.C. metropolitan area, including Maryland and Northern Virginia. Get in touch with us by calling (301) 595-1141 or follow us on social media including Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest. As a small, family-owned business, we understand how important your home is—and we offer exceptional service that matches!