Research reveals that the average household pays over $1,000 on water bills yearly. That is a significant amount of money, especially knowing that it can be reduced even further if households could be proactive about water wastage and other plumbing issues. If not properly managed, water wastage and plumbing issues can lead to significant costs.
However, there are several steps you can take to reduce your home's plumbing costs, be water-conscious, and save money in the long run. Below are a few.
Install low-flow fixtures
Low-flow fixtures are an excellent way to reduce your home's water usage and lower water bills. These fixtures include toilets, shower heads, and faucets designed to use less water without compromising performance.
For example, a low-flow shower head can reduce water usage by up to 70%, while a low-flow toilet can save up to 4,000 gallons per year. When choosing low-flow fixtures, look for those with the WaterSense label.
This label is given to fixtures that have been tested and meet specific water efficiency criteria established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). With these low-flow fixtures, you can reduce your home's plumbing costs and conserve water efficiently.
Consider a grey water system
Greywater is wastewater from sources other than the toilet, such as sinks, showers, and washing machines. A greywater system collects and treats this water for reuse in non-potable applications, such as landscape irrigation or toilet flushing. According to data, greywater usage can reduce your home's water consumption by up to 40%.
Undoubtedly, this is significant savings on your water bill. Greywater systems should be installed by a licensed professional to ensure they're safe and effective. Additionally, some states and municipalities have regulations regarding grey water use, so it's essential to check your local regulations before installing a grey water system in your home.
Maintain your water heater
Water heaters are essential to your home's plumbing system and account for a significant portion of your energy bills. By taking steps to maintain this appliance, you can reduce your energy costs and extend its lifespan. One of the most important things you can do is to flush the tank regularly.
Over time, sediment builds up in the tank, reducing its efficiency and potentially causing damage to the appliance. Flushing involves draining the water from the tank and removing accumulated sediment.
Another way to maintain your water heater is to check the temperature setting regularly. Aim to set your water heater's temperature to no more than 120 degrees Fahrenheit to save energy and avoid potential safety hazards. Getting plumbing specialists to service your water heater regularly is also prudent.
Use a water pressure regulator
When water enters your home's plumbing system, it's typically under high pressure, which can vary depending on your home's location and the local water supply. However, high water pressure can cause damage to your plumbing system, resulting in leaks and other costly repairs.
You can mitigate this by getting a water pressure regulator to help control the pressure in your home's plumbing system. That ultimately reduces the risk of damage and extends the lifespan of your pipes and fixtures.
Additionally, lower water pressure reduces excessive usage and saves you money on your monthly bill. A licensed professional must install water pressure regulators to ensure they're fixed correctly and functioning properly. The ideal water pressure for a home is typically between 30 and 80 psi (pounds per square inch).
Therefore, if your water pressure is significantly higher than this, there is a high possibility that you and other home occupants are wasting your water and must immediately correct it.
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