If you’re concerned about your water bills, you’ll need to reevaluate how you manage this resource in your home. There are several practical steps you can take to reduce water consumption. Here are a few top tips.
Don’t Ignore Leaky Water Fixtures
If you want to cut down your water bill, you can start by inspecting and fixing any leaky faucets. A water fixture losing one drop of water per second can waste 8.5 gallons of water per day. That amounts to more than 3,000 gallons per year!
Modern faucets have rubber washers, O-rings, and seals that can become defective and may leak water in the process. When inspecting water fixtures, look out for corrosion and signs of wear and tear around the faucet. If it’s defective, you may want to consider a replacement.
You can replace your water fixture with low-flow faucets and shower heads. Federal regulations require shower heads to have a flow rate of not more than 2.5 gallons per minute. According to the Energy Department, you can save 25% to 60% by using more efficient water fixtures.
Alternatively, you could use an aerator sine they’re affordable and easy to replace. Aerators can reduce splashing and limit the flow of water to the target area; therefore, they reduce wastage. However, the flow rate will vary depending on the type of fixture you acquire. Kitchen faucets have a limit set at 2.5 gallons per minute, while for shower faucets, it’s 1.5 or lower.
Fix Continuously Running Toilets
A running toilet is probably the most wasteful type of leak you may experience in your house. If you suspect there’s leaking, Bardi Heating, Cooling & Plumbing recommends you get urgent service in Norcross. You could lose up to 200 gallons a day from a toilet that’s running continuously!
If your toilet is running, one of the common reasons is a float-arm that’s higher than it ought to be. That means the water in the tank gets to a level higher than it should and lets water leak. Other reasons could be a faulty flapper or a refill tube that needs replacement.
You can also save water by acquiring energy-efficient toilets. According to the EPA, modern ones can use about 1.6 gallons of water per flush. That’s a considerable difference compared to older toilets built before 1992. Outdated ones can consume between 5 and 6 gallons of water.
Manage the Water You Use on Your Lawn
When temperatures hit 90 degrees Fahrenheit in Georgia, you’ll probably be watering the lawn more frequently. So, if you want to save money, you’ll need to plan and manage how you use an irrigation system.
You can lose a lot of water due to leaks around the sprinkler system. A typical hose of 1/32-inch can lose more than 6,000 gallons of water per annum. Additionally, pools of water can accumulate on parts of your yard. Flooding can damage parts of the building and foundation and may trigger corrosion in your plumbing.
Unfortunately, pools of water outside the building can go unnoticed for hours and even days. A simple fault like a malfunctioning valve can let out gallons of water on your lawn before you spot it and fix it. That’s why you should organize an inspection of your plumbing before summer begins in Norcross.
You can also manage wastage from your sprinkler system by using automated tools. In recent years, homeowners have been utilizing smart devices to control irrigation using weather and other factors. When it rains, the system can reduce or completely cut off the flow going through the sprinkler system.
You may want to evaluate whether your sprinkler’s entire system is running efficiently or vulnerable to leakages or blockages. You may need to use emitters to ensure that it distributes water accurately. Also, consider adopting sustainable methods of gardening. For example, you can grow crops suitable for the local climate. That way, the plants won’t require a lot of irrigation. Other techniques such as mulching can considerably reduce your water bills, too.
Manage How You Carry Out Household Chores
You could also save water by making a point of choosing the right and most efficient washing machine. However, you’ll need to evaluate your laundry needs to optimize the water consumption for household chores. A large piece of equipment can serve your household, but it may be using more water and electricity than necessary.
On the other hand, small appliances may require multiple loads, which can be wasteful. You could opt for equipment that can adjust according to the amount of water and temperature you need. When your machine is working efficiently, you can save both water and electricity.
Energy Star-certified washers can consume 35% less energy than outdated appliances. Efficient systems are better at storing water and are less prone to leakages that can cost you a fortune in water bills. Consider consulting Bardi Heating, Cooling & Plumbing when you need installations done.
Use a Water Softener to Save Water
You might want to consider using a water softener to save on the water you use for chores. In Georgia, some of the water comes from aquifers. That means it usually has considerable amounts of minerals. In some places, the water can be between hard and very hard. Minerals can create scale around your plumbing and equipment and cause damage, including corrosion and leaks.
One way you can tell if the water is hard is if you find you use a lot of soap to make it lather. Minerals like calcium and magnesium can make chores harder and increase the amount of soap you require. You’ll also need a lot more water to rinse the soap from your dishes and clothes.
What to Do if Your Bill Is Unusually High
If you notice your water bill is unusually high, it can be a sign of leaking in your plumbing. Take the time to examine your pipes and fixtures for any signs of leakages. If there’s a leak, you should turn off the water supply and seek professional assistance.
One of the signs that your plumbing has faults is if you notice microbial growth or mold spores. Watch out for any unpleasant smells in the house. Mold will have a musty odor and may appear as grey-green, black, or green spots on walls, floors, and ceilings.
Another sign of water damage is if there’s uneven growth of vegetation on your lawn. Water from a leaking hose or a punctured underground pipe may increase the moisture on parts of the yard. You may also notice that the floor or carpet is inexplicably damp, meaning there could be leakages.
A lot of water accumulating on parts of your property can cause damage to the walls and floors. If you notice cracks on the foundation, driveway, or walls, you should schedule a professional inspection. Not only is leaking destructive, but microbial growth can also cause a health hazard in your home.
When you suspect you have leakage or a clog, don’t hesitate to turn to Bardi Heating, Cooling & Plumbing in Norcross. We’re a BBB-accredited company with experienced staff members who can diagnose and fix your water problems. We use cutting-edge leak detection techniques, and we also perform drain cleaning and pipe replacements.
For top-rated plumbing services, contact Bardi Heating, Cooling & Plumbing in Norcross today.
