5 Ways to Save Water This Summer
With summer fast approaching, water use in California is about to take a sharp climb. Hot weather often means more showers, more watering of lawns and gardens, and more parties (which lead to more dishes and cleaning). How can you do your part to help the environment, and help yourself save gallons and dollars alike?
Minimize and Time Watering
We get thirsty when itโs hot out, so it stands to reason our grasses and plants are a bit parched too. But be careful before you reach for the hose or turn on the sprinkler. Most of us overwater, says theย EPA. Smartย sprinklers and irrigation systemsย can take advantage of data on local weather and vegetation so they donโt water too much. If you must water, do so earlier or later in the day when the sun isnโt as high in the sky and less water is lost to evaporation.
Donโt Hand Wash
With company coming and the kids home from school, weโre using more dishes than usual. Use your dishwasher rather than washing by hand to conserve water and power alike (bonus tip: wash at night when itโs cooler and youโll save on AC as well).
And itโs not just your dishes that shouldnโt be hand-washed. Your car should go through the car wash as well, since it usesย roughly a thirdย of the water youโd use if you washed by hand!
Time Your Showers
We understand. A cool shower feels wonderful at the end of a day thatโs left you hot and sticky. But as luxurious as it is, a long shower wastes water. Shaving two minutes off per shower can save up to 150 gallons of water per month (and speaking of shaving, donโt keep the water running the whole time youโre shaving).
Check Your Fixtures
Plumbing fixtures are a common cause of water loss. Sometimes this is through wear and leakage, which is a good time to call for Sacramento plumbing repair. Other times itโs simple neglect, which is no less frustrating or wasteful โ your kid finally remembers to wash his hands before dinner, but leaves the tap with a steady drip, or you get distracted when the phone rings while youโre rinsing veggies. Make sure nothingโs leaking, and that everythingโs turned off when itโs not in use.
Install New Fixtures if Needed
Even high-quality fixtures wear out over time. You might even considerย replacing plumbing fixturesย that are still in good condition in order to further conserve water. Low-flow shower heads and kitchen faucets, lower-capacity or dual-flush toilets, and other items can help in this regard.
Atย Home Ace Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning, weโve got a long history of helping businesses and homeowners spend less on energy and water through good old-fashioned conservation. If you need help โ whether itโsย plumbing repair, tips on energy rebates, or anything else that keeps your water needs met โ get in touch with us!