Most Central Texas residents are in the middle of determining the rates they will pay for water usage during the coming year. This three-month time period is called waste water averaging and it occurs during this time of year, every year. By taking some small steps, you can not only conserve water now and all year long, but also keep more of your hard earned dollars in your own pocket. Here are some tips from 1st Plumbing Services to help you lower your water usage and water bill this year.
Let’s take a look at ways to save outside your home first. It is important to select landscaping designs and plants that are drought tolerant and water-wise. Plants and grasses native to Central Texas are your best bet. These plants and grasses are well adapted to our dry, hot summers and often grow well with very little maintenance. Consider replacing thirsty grass, like St. Augustine, with xeriscaping or maybe buffalo grass or an edible garden instead. Check out the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center’s website for some excellent resources and information about selecting native plants and grasses for your yard. Some city’s even offer rebates for replacing your water thirsty landscape with a water-wise one. Check with your local government to see what rebate programs they may offer.
Consider installing a rain water collection system. Make every drop count! 1st Plumbing Services offers assistance in designing and installing a system that is right for your home or business. Check out our website for more information. Rain water harvesting allows you to collect rain water and then use it for watering your landscape and other outdoor water needs without having to pay for city water. This environmentally friendly option is a great way to save money and help with environment.
For both inside and outside of the home, check all pipes and faucets for leaks. Repairs any leaks ASAP! The amount of water lost from a leak can add up quickly in both wasted water and money lost literally down the drain.
Invest in new water wise appliances. Washing dishes by hand wastes a ton of water. A water wise dishwasher will save time, money, and water. The same is true of outdated washing machines. Older models use much more water to clean a load of laundry. When shopping for new appliances, check for the Energy Star symbol. If you are not sure how old your toilet is, it may be time to consider a new one as well. Again, the newer models are designed to conserve water and in turn money.
Here are some more ways to make small changes in your daily routine and save money and water along the way. Always run full loads in the washer and dishwasher. Try to take shorter showers (5 minutes or less is often the recommended time limit). Don’t leave the water running while shaving and brushing teeth. If you want to be more extreme in your conservation efforts, use a bucket to collect waste water in the shower and water house plants and even outdoor plants with it.
If you would like additional tips on how to conserve water at your home or business, give us a call today. 1st Plumbing Services will help you trouble shoot your plumbing system to find possible leaks and/or optimize your water usage and conservation efforts.