Customers often ask for plumbing tips on how to cut back water use.
Everyone wants to save on their water bills as much as possible. But, equally as important, Utah is currently under abnormally dry conditions. And, even though drought hasn’t officially hit our state yet this summer, it could develop and intensify quickly if we have a few weeks of high temperatures and low rainfall.
Either way, water conservation is always a good idea. Fortunately, we have several easy plumbing tips to help you cut back on water use.
No. 1: Check Your Toilet for Leaks
A leaky toilet can waste 200 gallons of water (or more!) every day.
A running noise is a sure sign you may have a plumbing problem, but some toilet leaks can be silent. Check yours by placing a few drops of food coloring in the tank. If the color appears in the bowl after a half hour (and you haven’t flushed), you need to schedule plumbing repair.
No. 2: Fix Leaky Faucets and Showerheads
A little drip may not seem like a big deal, but those drops can really add up.
A leaky faucet can waste over 3,000 gallons of water in a year’s time, and a shower head leak can waste over 500 gallons per year. Try tightening or replacing the connections or, better yet, call in a plumbing professional to stop the leaks.
No. 3: Upgrade Your Plumbing Fixtures
One of the most effective ways to save water is to switch out your old plumbing fixtures.
Upgrade to low-flow toilets, faucets and showerheads, and you’ll use much less water. You find even more plumbing tips for choosing water-saving faucets and fixtures at the EPA’s Water Sense site.
No. 4: Use Your Garbage Disposal Less
Plumbing experts recommend keeping a full stream of cold water running whenever using the garbage disposal. Otherwise, the food scraps can clog the drain and sewer pipe.
To save more water, put your food waste in the compost pile instead of the disposal.
No. 5: Do Laundry and Dishes Only As Needed
Do you have a regular laundry day? Or do you run the dishwasher every night?
This pro plumbing tip suggests holding off on your routine and only wash clothes and dishes as you need them. Running fuller loads of laundry and dishes helps save hundreds (or even thousands) of gallons of water each year.
No. 6: Put Excess Water to Good Use
Every drop of water counts, and taking a few extra steps can help cut your usage. Leftover vegetable or pasta cooking water can be used for watering plants, for example. The same goes for that last warm ounce in your water bottle – the bit you’d normally pour down the drain.
If you would like more pro plumbing tips, or if you would like to schedule a repair or fixture upgrade, give American Plumbing a call. Homeowners throughout northern Utah rely on us for quality work and exceptional customer service. To schedule a free professional plumbing consultation, contact our Provo office today.
