Water Drought in California - How to Save Water

It’s Summer in California and Water is Scarce

It is no secret that the drought Californians have been suffering through for nearly 4 years now is taking its toll on the entire state and its respective cities.

California Governor Jerry Brown has issued an Executive Order mandating that water consumption be reduced by 25%.  The lack of water is affecting people, plants and animals, and is wreaking havoc on the economy.

With not enough rainfall to replenish supplies, it is imperative that we make every effort to help conserve what water we do have.

Conservation starts at home and the little things we do to conserve water, when multiplied, can have a positive impact on the state while helping us save water and money.

Saving Water-Every measure Counts

With the typical person using between 80-100 gallons of water per day, you needn’t be a mathematician to realize just how much water is used collectively.  In a family of four that figure quadruples.

Below are listed some money saving tips designed to help conserve water and lower your monthly bill.

Is it Time to Upgrade Your Toilet?

Of all the ways we use water in the home; by far the most water is used in the bathroom and by flushing the toilet.  The average home flushes the toilet 5 times per day per person.
The old standard toilet uses about 3.5 gallons of water per flush and even up to 7 gallons.

Newer high-efficiency models have lowered that figure to as little as 1.3 to 1.5 gallons per flush.  By merely upgrading your toilet you can save nearly 20, 000 gallons of water per year.

There are even models that have 2 flush settings, one for water the other for solids.
Additionally, a small leak in the tank can waste 100 gallons of water a day.
To test your toilet for leaks, place a few drops of food coloring in the tank and wait 30 minutes.  If you find coloring in your bowl you have a leak.

If you are not familiar with DIY steps, and need help it is a brilliant idea to ask a Local Plumber, or a California Licensed Plumbing Contractor.

Other Leaks

Check all hosepipe connections regularly.  From the washing machine to outdoor spigots, if you see any drips, getting them fixed ASAP will save you water and money.

The Dishwasher Difference

When possible, wash the dishes using the dishwasher.  On average, a dishwasher uses about 8 gallons of water per load while traditional hand washing of the dishes can consume up to 30 gallons of water.

Washing the Car

While perhaps washing the car at home is a routine at your house, you can use up to 100 gallons of water by doing so.  Going to a carwash will save you labor and money.  The average water used at a carwash per car is only around 40 gallons…less than half!

The Washing Machine

Investing in a new energy and water-efficient washing machine can reduce consumption by 50%. You can wash 2 loads for the price of one.

Lawn Care

In some cities in California there are restrictions on watering the lawn or garden.  Be smart, the very best time to get the most out of your watering is early morning or at dusk.  If using a sprinkler, be sure the water hits only the grass or plants and that you aren’t watering the driveway or sidewalk as well.
Moreover, by using a drip irrigation system you will save a ton of water and money over a conventional sprinkler system.

Get Some Exercise While Saving Water

If your sidewalk or driveway needs cleaning, don’t use a hose; use a good old-fashioned broom to sweep away dirt and debris.  You’ll get a nice little workout and reduce your water consumption and your bill.

Dribbles & Drips

Adding a shutoff valve to the end of your garden hose will save you water and money too.  It’s amazing how much water that dripping can use as you walk between watering places.  With the valve you can shut the water off completely.


These 10 Simple Tips Will Save You Water & Money Big Time

• Incredibly, reducing your shower time by a mere 2 minutes can save nearly 1, 500 gallons of water per year per person.
• Turn off the water when shaving or brushing your teeth
• While waiting for the water to heat up, collect that water and use it to water indoor plants rather than watching it run down the drain
• Install water efficient shower heads and faucets
• Having a dishwasher and washing machine certified by Energy Star will save you thousands of gallons of water per year
• Some municipalities offer a rebate to those who purchase more energy and water efficient models of appliances
• If you have a swimming pool, to avoid evaporation, cover it during those hot days when not in use
• When possible, collect the condensation from air conditioners and humidifiers to water plants with (don’t use water containing soap-bleach or fabric softener)
• Consider a drip irrigation system for watering your garden, plants and trees, as this will save you time, money and effort

Think Small

While the thought of saving the planet may seem a daunting task beyond our abilities, it is the little things collectively we can do that can have a tremendously positive impact on water conservation and the planet.
If each of us will just make an effort to reduce our water consumption by changing our habits and incorporating more water-efficient appliances, we will not only save water, but money, and in some small way, our planet.

Water you waiting for?

The Article has been written and curated under Mr. Speedy Plumbing & Rooter Inc. Supervision

Mr. Speedy Plumbing & Rooter Inc, is a Los Angeles based plumbing contractor, providing plumbing, drain cleaning and water heater services.

Mr. Speedy Plumbing & Rooter Inc.
Address:
418 Molino St, Los Angeles, CA, 90013
Phone: (323) 209-3011