In today’s world prices are spiraling out of control. Inflation combined with pandemic-related issues has caused huge jumps in construction materials and food is at an all-time high. Your water bill may not be significantly affected but any way you can find to reduce costs should be of interest. In this article, we will discuss many clever ways you can reduce your monthly water bill and enjoy the added bonus of conserving water. Although these suggestions are not exhaustive they represent simple steps anyone can implement and by doing so you are helping the environment and your pocketbook.
Inside Your Home
The best place to start when trying to reduce your water bill is inside your home. Looking at plumbing appliances and potential places where there might be water leaks can help to reduce your overall water usage. Here are some tips…
Reduce Your Water Usage
The easiest way to reduce the money you spend on water is to reduce your water usage. The less you use the less it will cost you and the more that will be available for serious water demands. Begin in the bathroom with your water-saving habits.
First, reduce the time you spend in the shower and consider bathing several young children in the same tub of water. When brushing your teeth or shaving it is acceptable to turn the water off until a final rinse is needed.
Perhaps keep a large bucket in the bath to collect the water you typically waste waiting for hot water to arrive. This water can be used for other chores such as watering plants. An even better plan is to install a recirculation device that sends cold water back to the water heater ensuring immediate hot water when you open the tap.
Fix Plumbing Leaks
Plumbing water leaks are a big source of water waste as well as the cause of costly home repairs so make a monthly visual inspection of all exposed plumbing pipes, fixtures, water-using appliances, and your water heater. Even a toilet that continuously is running is considered a plumbing leak and needs your attention. Repair all dripping faucets, toilet flappers, and inlet hoses on your washing machine to prevent leaking.
Watch Out For Higher-Than-Normal Water Bills
Unexplained increases in your water bill should act as a red flag indicating a leak that is hidden from view. For these types, it is imperative you call in a professional. They have the knowledge and expertise to locate the leak and repair hidden leaks promptly thus reducing water loss and potential damage to your home.
Upgrade Plumbing Fixtures And Appliances
Consider replacing outdated appliances and fixtures with energy-efficient and water-saving models. The EPA instituted a program that rates products by their efficiency. The program, called WaterSense, identifies fixtures that save 20% or more energy use over non-WaterSense products. Look for this rating label in sink faucets, toilets, showerheads, and irrigation systems.
Low flow products or dual flush toilets save money as do hands-free faucets such as those controlled by motion or are voice activated. Other plumbing appliances, such as tankless water heaters, can also help you to become more energy efficient.
Outside Your Home
There is a lot of water consumption happening outside your home. Here are some outdoor water conservation tips to lower your bill this Summer…
Install Rain Barrels
There are plenty of ways to reduce your summer water bill outside your home. Installing rain barrels at the end of downspouts can collect water that can be used to wash your car, and your pets, and water your potted plants.
Watch Your Plant Watering Habits
Speaking of plants, be sure to only water at the start of the day or early evening when it is cooler. This will reduce evaporation and ensure your plants get the water they require. While watering mechanically, be certain water is only going onto your landscaping and not being wasted running on hard surfaces such as driveways and patios.
Plant Appropriately
Install drought-tolerant grasses and landscaping material so water usage outdoors can be lessened. Remember to cut your lawn with the mower’s blade a few inches higher. This will allow the longer blades of grass to shelter the roots which will lead to less evaporation and less watering.
Conduct Home Audit
Conducting a home water audit is a great way to identify water habits, locate leaks that potentially waste thousands of gallons of water per year, and learn new methods for conserving water.
An audit will begin by reviewing your water bill. Many utilities provide consumption data on the bill. For those who don’t, the water meter can be monitored for water usage.
The plumbing system will be checked for leaks as the first step toward conserving water. Sink faucets, exposed pipes, and toilets will be looked at, and testing for hidden leaks completed.
Next, proper waste removal will be discussed, and other ways to protect plumbing from clogs and leaks. Education is key to water-related issues so all water reduction methods will be discussed to reduce summertime usage and lower bills.
Need Help Saving Water This Summer?
Saving money on your water bills this summer does not require much effort. By practicing common sense habits it is easy to reduce water consumption and lower your bills. Taking time to locate and repair leaks will help as will upgrading plumbing fixtures and appliances to more modern and efficient models. With an eye on outdoor water use, homeowners can find more ways to cut back on water usage further reducing the amount of money spent each month. Water is a precious resource and we all need to do our part to protect our water supply.
If you think you might have a water leak or are interested in installing water-efficient plumbing appliances, give us a call. We offer comprehensive plumbing services in Oklahoma and the surrounding areas. Contact our team today to learn more!