There are several ways to save water at home. One of them is to turn off the faucet when not in use. Hand washing can use up to a quarter gallon of water each time, adding up to several gallons of water wasted per person each year. If you are one of the many people who wastes water while hand-washing, this is an excellent place to start. To save water in your home, follow these simple tips.
Reduce electricity usage to save water
In addition to saving money on utilities, reducing electricity usage can also save water. A few simple changes can save hundreds of dollars per year and help the environment at the same time. To save money, track your energy usage and identify areas for improvements. Saving energy now will save you money in the long run. The first step is to evaluate your water and electricity use. Compare your monthly bills with those of your neighbors. Make these changes and you will soon see how much you can save.
Reduce meat and dairy consumption to save water
We are already using more water than we use, and our current food habits are making it even more difficult to meet the growing demand for freshwater. According to the UN, by 2050, 95% of our calories must come from plant-based foods. Even maintaining that proportion in the world would be a challenge. The problem is even more pressing in the western part of the U.S., where over 25% of our water use goes towards the production of animal commodities.
Install drought-tolerant plants in your yard
When it comes to landscaping your lawn, you can choose drought-tolerant plants that are native to your area and need little watering. These plants have deep root systems that allow them to access moisture deep in the ground. Choosing drought-tolerant plants is also easier than you may think. Some plants even require no water at all. These plants require less maintenance and water than conventional lawns and are better for our environment than turfgrass.
Use ENERGY STAR-labeled appliances
Buying ENERGY STAR-labeleded appliances is a great way to reduce water and electricity bills. Appliances that carry the Energy Star label have been certified by an independent agency. The Energy Star process involves extensive laboratory testing and certification of energy-efficient home appliances. The Energy Star label is widely recognized and backed by the Environmental Protection Agency. Purchasing an appliance with this label ensures that it meets stringent environmental and financial standards.
Use a dual-flush toilet to save water
It’s not uncommon for the average person to flush their toilet up to five times per day, which can add up to a significant amount of water. A dual-flush toilet, for example, uses 1.6 gallons for a full flush and just 0.7 gallons for a half-flush. Using a dual-flush toilet can save you as much as 19.2 litres per day on a metered water supply.