Washington Homeowners Guide: 8 Ways To Conserve Water And Save

With the rising cost of utilities here in Washington state, it’s time for homeowners to do what they can to lower their water bill. Wondering where to start? Water-saving home improvements, renovations, and plumbing repairs that help you reduce the amount of water you use can quickly start to lower your monthly water bill.

Ready to conserve water and save money? Consider these eight water-saving renovation tips for your next home project.

1. Fix plumbing problems

Leaks in your plumbing system or dripping faucets mean you’re paying for extra water consumption. Plumbing issues can also lead to structural damage in your home that can result in costly repairs. Contact a plumbing expert if you notice signs of problems such as damp ceilings and walls, low water pressure, or mold and mildew growth.

2. Install timers on lawn sprinklers

Sprinkler timers can make your life easier and save money. You won’t have to remember when you last watered or monitor when you have to turn the water off. Leaving sprinklers unattended can waste gallons of water in a short period of time. You can increase water efficiency even more by setting timers to run between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. to avoid water evaporation during daylight hours.

Installing rain sensors is another way to save water outdoors. Sensors will stop sprinkler systems from turning on if it is or has been raining.

Need help with water-saving renovations? Call a plumbing contractor in Washington state.

3. Set up a rain barrel

Installing a rain barrel to collect runoff from the roof is a good way to reuse water. Use this runoff water on your garden and lawn to save money and be environmentally responsible.

4. Install drip irrigation

Drip irrigation systems are another efficient way to water gardens and lawns. The water goes directly into the ground, which prevents evaporation, runoff, and overwatering.

5. Install water aerators on taps

Installing aerators in the bathroom and kitchen will help to slow and limit water flow from the tap. Easy and inexpensive to install, water aerators are a cost-efficient way to save both energy and water.

6. Install low-flow toilets

Low-flow and dual-flush toilets can help you cut water use in the bathroom by 67 percent. Not only will you lower your water bill, you’ll also reduce the load on your plumbing and septic system.

7. Purchase a low-flow shower head

A quick and easy fix to save water without giving up comfort is to replace an old shower head with one that is high efficiency. Older shower heads can use as much as 8 gallons of water per minute, while a low-flow model uses only 2.5 gallons.

8. Invest in energy-efficient appliances

Consider upgrading to appliances that meet the Department of Energy and EPA energy savings standards. You’ll use up to 50 percent less water by replacing your old top-loading washing machine with an Energy Star front-loading machine.

For plumbing advice and to learn more about water-saving home renovations, call a HomeAdvisor plumbing contractor in Washington state for professional service.

This Patch article is sponsored by HomeAdvisor.