4 Tips for Conserving Water at Home
Millions of people live in areas of the United States that are prone to drought, especially in the western states like California, Oregon, Utah, and Nevada. In these areas, water conservation can become a daily concern. However, it can happen to any state, as it did in the central U.S. during the Dust Bowl. Whether you expect to experience a drought, or you want to live more sustainably, here are some tips for conserving water around your home.
1. Landscaping
The plants you grow outdoors can require extensive watering, and depending on the requirement it can be as often as several times a week during the summer. While there is the option to not have any plants, everyone deserves a beautiful yard. Xeriscape landscaping is the practice of growing plants that require very little water. These low maintenance plants still provide a beautiful and natural lush garden using just a fraction of the water necessary for typical gardens.
2. Faucet Aerators
One way to minimize water usage indoors is to install faucet aerators. While faucets should already have these pre-installed, they may become lost over time and need to be replaced. These devices are easy to install and they give the impression and feel of higher water pressure while actually using less. By breaking up the stream of water coming out of the faucet head, the user gets a wider stream of coverage and makes the flow of water more productive.
3. Your Toilet Tank
Recycle a small coke bottle by filling it with sand and water and putting it in your toilet tank. The space it takes up will save you that much water every time the toilet is flushed. It’s been estimated that this trick, which won’t harm your toilet, can save you up to five gallons of water per day. Over time, that equals a huge chunk of water conservation.
4. Save Waste Water
A lot of water that runs through faucets doesn’t get used, but it could. Save the water you run warming your bath or shower. You can do this by allowing the water to collect in a bucket. That water can then be used to water your plants. You can also collect the water you use to rinse foods and dishes in your sink. Use this water for your outdoor plants.
There are many ways to conserve water. It simply requires developing new habits. Talk with your family to discuss other ways your family can conserve water. By having everyone involved, your plans are more likely to succeed.
What's Your Reaction?
