Do you know how to conserve water?
Water is one of the most essential resources on Earth, yet it is finite. The average American household uses approximately 300 gallons of water per day, and with the growing effects of climate change, it’s becoming more critical than ever to conserve water. Conserving water means using it wisely and preventing waste, ensuring we have enough for future generations while also protecting the environment.
What’s more, saving water goes beyond environmental protection; it can have a positive impact on your wallet. Simple actions, like fixing leaky faucets, cutting water use during routine tasks, and using water-efficient appliances, can reduce your water bills significantly. Additionally, conserving water helps save energy, as less energy is required to heat and pump water, leading to further financial savings.
This guide will walk you through how to conserve water and make small yet impactful changes you can make both indoors and outdoors to help conserve water in your home.
“conserve water” by nicolas.boullosa is licensed under CC BY 2.0
Indoor Water Usage Tips
Did you know that over half of a household’s water usage happens indoors, particularly in the bathroom and kitchen? Here’s how to save gallons of water and reduce your water footprint.
1. Fix Leaky Faucets and Toilets
A leaky faucet can contribute to significant water lost, wasting up to 3,000 gallons of water per year, and a running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day. Checking your fixtures and having any leaks repaired promptly is one of the most effective ways to save water. Not sure where the leak is coming from? Add a few drops of food coloring to your toilet tank. If color appears in the bowl without flushing, it’s time to repair your leaky toilet.
2. Take Shorter Showers
The average shower uses around 2.1 gallons of water per minute. By keeping showers under 5 minutes, you can save up to 12.5 gallons of water per day.
3. Turn Off the Water When Brushing Teeth
This simple habit of not letting the faucet run while brushing teeth can save up to 8 gallons of water per day per person. Teach your family members the importance of turning off the tap while brushing their teeth. Every drop counts!
4. Use High-Efficiency Appliances
Investing in water-efficient appliances, like Energy Star-rated high efficiency washing machines, can drastically reduce your household’s water and energy use. Only run the washing machine with full loads to maximize efficiency. Additionally, dishwashers use less water than washing dishes by hand if you run them when fully loaded.
5. Defrost Frozen Foods in the Refrigerator Overnight
Instead of thawing foods under running tap water, use your refrigerator to defrost them. This saves water while ensuring the food stays at a safe temperature.
“Robots don’t conserve water” by Jason Rosenberg is licensed under CC BY 2.0
Outdoor Water Efficiency
During hot summer months or in dry climates, a household’s outdoor water use can account for up to 70% of its total water consumption. In fact, nearly 30 percent of a household’s daily water usage is dedicated to outdoor activities. Here’s how to water your garden more effectively and reduce waste outdoors.
1. Use Native Plants and Reduce Evaporation
Native plants that thrive in the DMV climate require less water and maintenance compared to non-native varieties. To further conserve water while tending your garden, water wisely by watering plants during the early morning or late evening to reduce evaporation. This alone can save up to 25% of water loss.
2. Install Smart Irrigation Systems
Instead of traditional sprinklers, opt for soaker hoses or drip irrigation systems. These deliver water directly to the roots where it’s needed most, minimizing excess runoff and waste.
3. Sweep Driveways Instead of Hosing Them Down
Use a broom instead of a hose to clean driveways and sidewalks. This simple change can save hundreds of gallons of water per year.
4. Visit a Commercial Car Wash That Recycles Water
When it’s time to wash your car, choose a commercial car wash that recycles water rather than washing it at home. Commercial facilities are designed to use water efficiently and sustainably.
Why Saving Water is Critical
Water conservation goes hand in hand with environmental protection, energy savings, and financial benefits. By saving water, we reduce the energy required for heating water, transportation systems, and treatment plants, which leads to lower energy bills overall.
For DMV residents specifically, participating in conservation efforts has a local impact. The region benefits from programs promoting smarter water use, drought preparedness, and the use of eco-friendly irrigation systems. Small changes by individuals add up to significant community-wide benefits.
Water Conservation Methods
By adopting the following strategies, you can preserve one of our most precious resources without making big sacrifices in your daily life.
- Repair leaky faucets immediately to stop wasting water unnecessarily.
- Always use the load size selection on your washing machine. Running only full loads maximizes efficiency.
- When using a garbage disposal, try to add food waste sparingly and avoid running the faucet unnecessarily. Composting is a great alternative.
- Install faucet aerators to reduce water flow without compromising utility.
- Adjust the water level in your toilet tank to reduce the amount used per flush.
The Role of Community Engagement
Community involvement is a powerful tool to amplify water-saving efforts. Many water utilities in the DMV region offer rebates on water-efficient appliances and host conservation programs for residents.
Encourage friends, family, and neighbors to get involved in local water conservation initiatives. This could include planting native plants, joining educator programs on water-saving irrigation systems, or attending workshops on fixing leaky faucets.
Local Tip for DMV Residents
The DMV area frequently offers free resources and expert advice on water-efficient landscaping and indoor conservation. Reach out to your local authorities, or check out programs like those organized by water utilities in Maryland and Virginia.
Resources for Conserving Water
EPA WaterSense
The EPA’s WaterSense program provides tools, tips, and resources to help individuals and communities reduce water use effectively.
Water Use It Wisely
This website offers over 100 water-saving tips, facts, and resources to help you conserve water at home and beyond.
Alliance for Water Efficiency
The Alliance for Water Efficiency provides information on efficient water use technologies and policies for homes, businesses, and industries.
Save the Water
Learn about water conservation and the science behind ensuring clean and safe water for everyone with Save the Water’s educational resources.
USGS Water Science School
Explore water topics like conservation and the water cycle through interactive learning material and data provided by the US Geological Survey.
National Geographic’s Water Conservation Guide
National Geographic offers insightful articles and solutions for reducing water consumption at an individual and global level.
Transform Your Water Usage Today | How To Conserve Water
By conserving water, you’re not just saving gallons of water or reducing your household’s expenses. You’re contributing to the long-term sustainability of our limited resources while supporting local ecosystems and our planet at large.
If you’re ready to take water conservation efforts to the next level, don’t hesitate to contact G.A. Eberly Plumbing & Heating. Whether you need to repair leaky faucets, install high-efficiency appliances, or optimize your home’s plumbing system, our team is here to help. Call us today at 301-856-6900 or visit gaeberly.com for expert plumbing services.