How to save water

Did you know that less than 1 percent of the planet’s fresh water is considered usable for humans? Water is one of the biggest commodities on Earth. Unfortunately, it's also one of the most misused and abused resources, making it a scarce resource in many parts of the world. In fact, according to the United Nations Population Fund, half of the world's population lacks clean drinking water. Between the depletion of this resource and the high costs associated with enjoying an overabundance of this resource, it only makes sense to save water and, therefore, money, wherever you can. This article will focus on the 10 ways to save water 

 

1. Turn Off the Faucet

Guess where the consumption of water in your household is highest? The bathroom. To save water, turn off the faucet when brushing your teeth and washing your hands, and make sure the drain stopper is up before running a bath. Also, consider bathing in a partially filled tub—more room for bubbles!

 

2.Insulate Water Pipes

Water pipes that are not insulated waste significantly more water because it takes them longer to heat up. By insulating pipes, water will be able to heat quicker, thereby reducing the amount of undesired cool water that snakes down the drain before your hot water appears.

 

3. Cut Down on Shower Time

Long showers may be an antidote for a tough day, but 10 minutes under a regular showerhead can use 42 gallons of water. To limit your water usage, aim to spend just a few minutes showering, and use a timer. Installing a water-efficient showerhead is another smart strategy;

 

4. Throw Unwanted Food Away

The garbage disposal is a huge source of water waste because water must remain running as the disposal breaks down food. Instead, you could throw extra scraps away, give them to pets or even create a compost pile for a garden.

 

5. Don’t Use Your Toilet as a Garbage Can

Blow your nose, toss the tissue in the toilet, flush: You’ve just wasted 5 gallons of water. Use a wastebasket for anything not specifically meant to go in the toilet.

 

6. Get Smart About Washing Your Car

Running a hose during the time it takes to wash a car will waste as many as 150 gallons of water. Instead, use a bucket of soapy water for the actual washing and save your hose for the rinse.

 

7. Watch What Flows Down the Drain

Don’t pour toxins like house paint and paint thinner into the sink. Unused medicine should be disposed of through a community take-back program. Or mix it with an undesirable substance (such as kitty litter or coffee grounds), seal it in a bag and put it in the trash.

 

8. Repair Leaks

Leaky pipes, hoses, faucets, shower heads and nozzles can waste gallons of water a day. Go through your home and inspect these devices, listening for drips and feeling for moisture. Tighten these appliances with a wrench. If you cannot fix the problem yourself, you may need to hire a plumber or to replace the appliance altogether.

 

9. Limit Your Laundry

Instead of running several mini-loads during the week, wait until you have enough to fill the machine’s tub for the most efficient wash. And use your washer’s preset water level—small, medium or large.

 

10. Water Your Grass and Garden Early or Late

Sunup and sundown are the times when water is less likely to evaporate, and more likely to nourish your yard. And be sure you really soak the ground; serious watering encourages grass and plants to develop deep roots, which need less watering as they mature.