Water Conservation and Plumbing Tips

Water conservation is extremely important. With ongoing droughts in over 1/4 of the country and a growing population it is more critical now than ever to begin water conservation practices.  The easiest and most hidden way to conserve water is through the use of high water efficient plumbing systems. Here are some ways you can do your part:

• Don’t use excessive amounts of detergents, bleach or chemicals that may kill the natural bacteria in your septic system.
• Use biodegradable soaps and detergents.
• To prevent excessive watering of your lawn in the summertime, purchase an inexpensive spring-loaded timer which attaches directly to your outside faucet. This will prevent overwatering in case you forget to shut off the sprinkler.
• Water pressure in your home above 60 pounds per square inch is harmful to your plumbing system and will cause excessive water usage. Contact your local water authority to find out what the water pressure is on your street. If it exceeds 60 pounds, consider installing a pressure reducing valve that will limit the water pressure within your home.
• Check your water meter during a period of time when no water is being used. Make a note of the meter reading and check it 8 to 10 hours later. If the meter has moved, there is an indication that you may have an undetected water leak, which should be corrected.

• Leaky toilets consume more than 40% of your total water usage. Installation of a new toilet flapper and fill valve will keep your toilet running efficiently.

• Conserve energy by checking the temperature setting on your water heater. It should not be above 120°F or medium setting on older models.

• Replacing an old shower head can save up to 7.5 gallons of water per minute without sacrificing full spray action at low or high water pressures.

• A leaky faucet that drips once per second can waste more than 8 gallons a day. That’s 3,000 gallons per year!