I opened my water bill last night. It was a good 25% higher than last month. Yes, my daughter has moved home for the summer, but really? That much more? So happens I stumbled on a great piece in Natural Health magazine on how to save water. I think sharing some of the green tips I stumble upon deserve space in this place. Today is part 1 of a series that could go on for a bit. I'll probably do a green piece every couple of weeks. If you have ideas -- please share them.Natural Health offered up four tips, and three sound like a quick trip to your favorite local hardware store will handle the detail. The fourth idea is more of a long-term commitment, but one worth noting:
Tip 1 (the long-term one)
Choose a front loading washing machine that is ENERGY STAR-rated. Front loaders use about half the water as their top-loading cousins. This change can save you 20-25 gallons per load.
Tip 2
Install faucet aerators. These gems will help you reduce water consumption by about 60%.
Tip 3
Install a low-flow shower head. This one might be harder for those with long hair -- I know. But I have short hair and am not too worried. The magazine says the newer models offer plenty of water pressure. Depending on how many showers are going on in your house -- you could save thousands of gallons a year.
Tip 4
Check for toilet leaks. This, dear readers, is one I've never heard before. Apparently you need a special dye tablet (and the article mentions that some water companies give them out for free -- check with your company for details, but I'm guessing they are also available at hardware stores). You drop one in the tank, and if dye appears in the toilet bowl -- you have a leak. Call a plumber to fix, and if you have to replace the toilet, opt for a water-efficient model. Another 2,000 gallons saved (but that must depend on the number of people in your house -- and the magazine does not elaborate).
So there you have it. Save water, save money. It's that easy.
-reenie
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