Save energy by using less water
Posted by Guest Blogger on December 31, 2012
Water conservation is very important. It saves energy as well as water. There are many simple was to conserve water….
For starters, be sure to turn off the water faucet while brushing your teeth and only turn it on when you need to rinse your brush. Taking shorter showers will save water and energy by not having to heat as much hot water.
When watering grass and plants many people tend to over-water. A simple way to check on the amount of water you are using is to take a container, a can or bowl, and mark the side in ¼ inch increments, set it in the area to be watered and see the amount of water you put on the grass. This will help you tell if you are over-watering. Check with the garden supply store for the amount of water needed for your garden or grass and set your sprinklers and timers to deliver only the right amount. Over time this can save a lot of water.
Water leaks also waste water. Fix leaking faucets, and check the water softener for the proper timing for the operation. Adjust if needed, and check the drain hose to make sure the drain valve is closed during normal operation.
Replacing showerheads, aerators, faucets, and toilets can also conserve water. Replacing a standard showerhead with a low-flow head (1.5 gallons per minute (gpm)) can save up to 40 percent on water use in your shower. A kitchen faucet aerator that uses 1.5 GPM can save 30 percent more water and energy than a standard one. Changing the bathroom faucet aerator to a low flow of 1GPM can save 55 percent more water and energy over a standard aerator. Wright Hennepin has energy-saving water kits available for you to purchase, and are only $10.00 each.
Replacing your toilet with a low gallon toilet will save water and energy also. New toilets may use just 1.5 gallons per flush where older toilets may use from 3-5 gallons per flush.