How to Reduce Water Use at Home

Reducing water use at home is not only beneficial for the environment but can also lead to significant savings on utility bills. Here are several practical and effective strategies to conserve water in various areas of your home.

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Fix Leaks

Check for and repair any leaks in faucets, toilets, outdoor spigots, and anywhere there is a possibility of leakage. You can also buy a water alarm for areas that might be prone to leaks, so that you can be alerted any time there is a leak.

Even a small drip can waste a substantial amount of water over time.

Install Low-Flow, High Efficiency Fixtures / Appliances

Replace old shower heads, faucets, and toilets with low-flow models that use significantly less water. Modern low-flow showerheads can provide a satisfying shower while using less water.

Shorten Showers & Take Fewer Baths

Encourage family members to take shorter showers. Even cutting down by a minute or two can save a lot of water. Consider using a shower timer.  You can also have a switch to turn off the shower while shaving.

Showers typically use less water than baths. If you do take a bath, only fill the tub as much as necessary.

Turn Off Taps While Brushing, Washing, etc.

Don’t let the water run while brushing your teeth or shaving. Instead, fill a cup with water for rinsing.

Use Your Dishwasher & Washing Machine Efficiently

Only run the dishwasher when it’s fully loaded to maximize the amount of water used per wash. Choose the eco or water-saving cycle if available.

Always run the washing machine with a full load, as it uses almost the same amount of water regardless of the load size. If you must wash a smaller load, adjust the water level setting accordingly.

Water Lawns and Gardens Wisely

Water your lawn and garden in the early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation. Use a timer to avoid overwatering. Also use a water sensor to prevent watering during rainy days, or have a watering app on your phone so that you can turn off your sprinkler any time.

Use a Rain Barrel

Collect rainwater in a rain barrel, and use it to water your garden and indoor plants.

Use Drip Irrigation

For garden beds and shrubs, drip irrigation systems deliver water directly to the plant roots, reducing waste and evaporation.

Choose Native Plants

Native and drought-resistant plants require less water and are well-suited to the local climate.

Mulch Your Garden & Use Hardscaping

Mulching helps retain soil moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering. You can also use hardscaping, such as stone beds, to reduce the need for watering.

By implementing these strategies, you can make a substantial impact on your water usage at home, contributing to environmental conservation and reducing your utility bills.