Saving energy and water are both a large part of living a green lifestyle. If you are concerned about the environment and want to save money on your utility bills, there are green plumbing ideas that you can implement around your home to make a noticeable difference. There are plenty of ways to reduce the amount of energy and water your family uses every day by just following some of these tips.
- Fix drips quickly. A small drip can add up to big losses of water over time. The EPA estimates that one dripping or leaking faucet can waste 3,000 gallons of water a year. If you have a leaky or dripping faucet, don’t wait to get it fixed.
- Water saving fixtures. From low flow toilets to shower heads, there are many ways to reduce the amount of water you use on a daily basis. For even more savings, when it comes time to replace large water appliances such as water heaters, washers and dishwashers, make sure you look for energy and water efficient models.
- Heated water. Many homes are wasting money every time the hot water is turned on anywhere in the house. Poorly insulated pipes and water heaters radiate heat, wasting energy. Any pipes or water heaters which are hot to the touch should be insulated to cut down on energy and heat loss. Consider installing a tankless water heater.
- Reduce running water. One of the biggest wastes of water is allowing faucets to run. Never allow water to run straight from the faucet down the drain. Collect water in a container for rinsing vegetables or dishes. Use this container to water house or outdoor plants, making it useful.
A hundred families that fix a leaky faucet today could save 300,000 gallons of water over the next year. Every little bit of water and energy you save adds up, saving you money while protecting our natural resources. Contact a plumbing professional in your area to learn more about energy and water efficient options for your home.
Posted on behalf of Shawn Bynum, Bynum Plumbing
