Updating Your Plumbing Fixtures - Save Water Around The House
With the warmer, dryer months ahead of us, now is a great time to start thinking about how to save water around the house. One of the biggest water wastes in our homes are old, outdated plumbing fixtures. Older toilets, faucets, and showerheads can use a lot of water. By updating your plumbing fixtures you may be able to cut back on your usage and save some money on your utility bill.
High Efficiency Toilets
High efficiency toilets also known as HETs are a great way to save water around the house. Especially if you live in an older home with original plumbing. Toilets are one of those things that don’t really need to be replaced that often. Most of the working parts inside can be replaced, making toilets one of the longest lasting plumbing fixtures. However, that doesn’t mean that your toilet is efficient. Older toilet could waste as much as 3-5 gallons with each flush. Newer, more efficient toilets use as little as .5 gallons, with some models having two modes for flushing known as duel flush toilets; one for liquid waste and one for solid waste. Look for toilets that have the WaterSense logo.
Faucets and Showerheads
Just like toilets, faucets and shower heads are also plumbing fixtures that can waste a lot of unnecessary water. Newer more efficient faucets and showerheads can reduce the amount of water you use by as much as 30%-50%. Low flow aerators are also great to reduce the amount of water without sacrificing water pressure.
Leak Prevention
Leaky plumbing fixtures can waste thousands of gallons of water over time. Costing you a lot of money on your water bill. A running toilet or leaky faucet or showerhead should be repaired or replaced to prevent excess water waste. Ongoing leak detection is a good way to keep leaks at bay. Inspect all plumbing fixtures at regular intervals. When checking for leaks remember the 3 S’s:
- Sight - The visible signs of a leak, pooling puddles, or water damage.
- Sound - The sound of running, dripping, or rushing water.
- Smell - The smell of mold or mildew.
You should also pay attention to your water bill, as a higher than usual water bill is usually one of the fist indicators that something is wrong. If you suspect a leak contact a professional. Professional leak detection utilizes the latest in technology to identify and diagnose leaks quickly and effectively before they become a major problem.
Consider Your Appliances
While on the quest to save water around the house, you may also want to consider your appliances as well. Just like plumbing fixtures, older appliances like dishwashers and washing machines require a lot more water than newer models. Most newer models are far more efficient and effective than older ones, you may stand to save a significant amount of water and electricity and gas by updating your appliances. Look for appliances that have the Energy Star logo.
Modernize Your Space
Another great aspect of replacing inefficient plumbing fixtures and appliances is it modernizes your space. You don’t have to undergo a major renovation to update your home. Replacing your plumbing fixtures can not only help you save water around the house, but also help you update an outdated bathroom. Water is our most precious resource, so it is important to make sure we are doing our part and conserving it. For more tips on how you can save water around the house contact Rooter Hero today!