Water is essential to our daily lives. You may pay more for water than you need. Reduce your family’s water consumption will not only reduce your water bill but also your electric/gas bills. You can also reduce your water consumption by reducing the demand for freshwater. This will help to reduce the amount of freshwater taken from scarce (and often diminishing) groundwater and surface resources. Reducing your family’s water consumption can have both an environmental and personal impact.
How can saving water save money?
It is well-known that conserving energy can save you money. But, what about water? It is a clear yes. Standard faucets and shower heads use three to seven gallons per minute. This is 30 to 70 gallons of water per minute. According to the EPA, a family can save 700 gallons per year by switching to approved water saving faucets. This means 700 gallons less water to heat up in your hot water heater and 700 gallons less you will have to pay for from your utility provider. It sounds like a significant savings, doesn’t it?
How do water-saving faucets work?
Low-flow faucets can cause water pressure problems for many homeowners. However, this is not true. Water-saving faucets reduce water flow and maintain water pressure.
There are many low-flow options available depending on your preferences.
- Aerator – This water-saving attachment forces water through a series of small openings. These holes infuse water with air to maintain pressure. This attachment is available on some faucets. If there’s a screen near the faucet’s opening, it’s the aerator. Aerator inserts can be fitted to most faucets.
- Laminar – This faucet allows water to flow through small openings. It creates a relaxing and gentle flow. This type of faucet is great for rain showerheads, as it creates a tranquil water flow that mimics rainfall.
- Infrared sensor This faucet senses hand movements beneath the faucet and initiates water flow. The water flow is stopped if the sensors detect that the hands are moving away from it. This stops the faucet from being left on when not needed, and reduces water consumption.
- Self-closing – Self-closing faucets have spring loaded handles and are designed to shut off in a matter of seconds.
- Foot-operated – This faucet allows users to turn the water on at a pre-set temperature by tapping their foot.
Water, Energy, and Money: Save Water, Energy, and Money
Water waste can cause damage to your family and the environment. A few simple steps like installing low flow faucets or shower heads can help you conserve water and lower your monthly utility bills.