Did you know that the average American family uses nearly 100 gallons of water daily? In a family of four, that adds up to more than 100,000 gallons of water per year. But there are plenty of ways to reduce your water consumption without major changes to your lifestyle. Check out these tips to help you save water at home.
1. Tips to Help Save Water: Use a Rain Barrel
A rain barrel is a great way to collect and use water that would otherwise go to waste. You can use the water contained in your rain barrel to water plants, flush toilets, wash your car, or scrub the deck. Rainwater harvesting uses water that would otherwise go to waste.
2. Fix Leaks
A small drip from a leaky faucet can waste 20 gallons of water per month. Repair leaks as soon as you notice them. You’ll save water, prevent water damage, and save money on your utility bill.
3. Tips to Help Save Water: Upgrade the Fixtures
If your home is over 20 years old, it probably has outdated fixtures that use more water than necessary. Upgrading to low-flow showerheads, faucet aerators, and water-saving toilets significantly affects your water usage.
4. Don’t Let the Water Run
When brushing your teeth or washing dishes, don’t let the water run the entire time when brushing your teeth or washing dishes. Turn it on when you need it, and turn it off when you don’t. You will also save water by only running your dishwasher and washing machine when they are full.
5. Tips to Help Save Water: Use Gray Water
Gray water is household wastewater you can reuse for irrigation and other non-potable uses. For example, collect the water used to boil pasta and use it to water the garden. You can significantly reduce the freshwater used in your home by reusing gray water.
6. Water During Cooler Hours
Water evaporates quickly, so it’s important to avoid watering your lawn during the hottest part of the day. Water the garden beds and grass early in the morning or evening when evaporation is less likely to occur.
7. Mulch the Garden Beds
Mulching helps prevent evaporation and keeps the moist soil longer, so you won’t have to water as often. Organic mulches like wood chips and straw also improve soil health by breaking down and providing nutrients.
8. Choose Drought-Resistant Plants
Drought-resistant plants are an excellent option for areas of your lawn or garden that are difficult to keep watered. Ask an expert at your local garden center for recommendations. Some common drought-resistant plants include sedum, yarrow, echinacea, and lavender.
Get your family on board for the greatest benefit. Following these simple tips can reduce your water consumption and save money.
JW Goad Home Inspections provides inspection services in the Clarksville area of Tennessee. Contact us to schedule an appointment.