With near-constant drought conditions and water shortages, conservation is a responsibility for all California residents. Here are some easy ways to cut back on home water use to help do your part for the California drought and save money while you’re at it!
Sinks
Installing a low-flow faucet aerator on your faucets can help reduce water use, and it’s inexpensive to do. Depending on the aerator you choose, it can restrict water flow to less than 1.0 gpm. It’s also important to repair any leaks to prevent water waste.
And while not running the faucet unnecessarily may seem like a no-brainer, it’s easy to fall into this habit. Turn off the water when you’re brushing your teeth or doing the dishes. If you’re really serious about conserving water, you can re-use faucet water by collecting it in a plastic basin to repurpose for your lawn or plants.
Dishwashing
Believe it or not, dishwashers can be more efficient than hand-washing if you run them at the right settings and only run them when they’re completely full. Adjust your water level settings and you’ll save a lot of dough!
If you don’t have a dishwasher, don’t run water without plugging the sink first. Turn off faucets when you don’t need water and if you have two sinks, fill one half with water for rinsing to reduce waste.
Showers & Toilets
Just by shaving a few minutes off your showers, you can make a difference. If you want to save even more, install a low-flow toilet. Technology has come a long way to make these new water-efficient toilets more efficient.
Pools
The whole concept of having a pool makes conservation seem impossible, but there are several things you can do and still enjoy a dip on a hot day.
- Use a pool cover. This helps reduce water loss from evaporation. A cover also can help save on heating costs by keeping water warm when the temperature drops. There are a lot of options—just be sure to choose one that fits well or your efforts will be for nothing.
- Repair leaks. A small leak in your pool’s structure can waste up to 102,000 gallons of water a year.
- Lower your pool water temperature if you have a heated pool. Warmer water evaporates faster.
- Clean your filter manually. Automated systems can use between 250 and 1,000 gallons of water and not clean your filter thoroughly.
- Say no to fountains and waterfalls. If you must have them running, turn them off at night or when you’re not outside enjoying them.
- Maintain your pool with the proper amount of chemicals and circulation. Keeping your pool in good, working order will prevent the need for draining should conditions become unsafe or unclean.
- If you don’t have a separation tank, consider reducing or eliminating backwashing. Many people overdo it; filters often don’t need to be backwashed at all. If you can take apart the filter and clean it yourself, do so.
If you’ve identified leaks in your sinks, pool, or any part of your plumbing system, or are interested in low-flow devices or appliances, we have you covered. Give the plumbing experts at George Brazil a call or contact us online 24/7.
