Sustainable Living: How to Conserve Water at Home
Mindful water usage is an essential practice for all of us as we seek to manage earth’s resources wisely. Not only does conserving water benefit the planet, but it also reduces your water bills, which as we all know, can really add up!
Here are some practical ways to conserve water at home, organized into two categories:
Actions you can practice every day
Improvements you can make to your home and garden to conserve water use over time.
Water-saving actions you can practice every day…
Only Run Full Loads
Whether it's the dishwasher or washing machine, try to run full loads to maximize water efficiency. If your appliances have a load size selector, use it to match the water usage with the load size.
Shorten Shower Time
Aim for shorter showers and consider turning off the water while soaping or shampooing. You can also install a low-flow showerhead to reduce water consumption.
Re-use Water
Collect and reuse water when possible. For example, capture water used while rinsing fruits and vegetables, and use it to water plants.
Turn Off the Faucet
Don't let the water run while brushing your teeth, washing dishes, or doing other tasks. Use a basin or plug the sink to wash vegetables or dishes.
Water-saving investments you can make in your home and garden:
Fix Leaks
Check for and repair any leaks in faucets, toilets, and pipes promptly. A small leak may seem insignificant, but it can waste a significant amount of water over time.
Install Water-Efficient Appliances
Consider replacing old appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers with water-efficient models. Look for appliances with the ENERGY STAR label, as they are designed to be more water-efficient. If your toilet is an older model, consider replacing it with a low-flow or dual-flush toilet. These use less water per flush.
Use Low-Flow Fixtures
Install low-flow faucets and shower heads, which reduce water usage by about 60 percent. These fixtures reduce the flow of water without sacrificing water pressure, helping you save water with every use.
Collect Rainwater
Use rain barrels to collect rainwater for watering plants and gardens. This can help reduce the need for tap water for outdoor irrigation.
Water Plants Wisely
Water your plants early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are lower to reduce evaporation. Also, use a drip irrigation system or soaker hoses instead of a sprinkler to target the roots more efficiently.
Mulch Your Garden
Applying mulch around plants helps retain moisture in the soil, reducing the need for frequent watering. It also helps control weeds that compete for water.
Work as a Team with your Household!
Get your whole household on board with your water saving plan! Ensure that everyone in your household is aware of the importance of water conservation and actively participates in adopting water-saving habits.
By incorporating these water-saving practices into your daily routine, you can contribute to a more sustainable use of water resources. While new habits can be tricky to form, any small habit that cares for our planet and conserves resources should give us a lot of satisfaction.