10 Easy Ways to Reduce your Bill

Posted: 05 May 2009 in the Conservation Education Category

Water is one of the few commodities people cannot live without, and it is also a commodity many of us may take for granted. Consumers can easily reduce water usage without sacrifice by following a few simple steps. These are some of the tips that can add up to significant savings on your bill, while helping to protect a valuable resource.

10 Easy ways to Reduce your water Bill 

1. Verify that your home is leak-free. Many homes have hidden water leaks. Read your water meter before and after a half-hour period when no water is being used. If the meter does not read exactly the same, there is a leak.
2. Take shorter showers. Replace you showerhead with an ultra-low-flow version. Some units are available that allow you to cut off the flow without adjusting the water temperature knobs.
3. Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth or shaving.
4. Operate automatic dishwashers and clothes washers only when they are fully loaded or properly set the water level for the size of load you are using.
5. Use a bucket to wash the car and a hose to rinse it.
6. Take frozen food out of the refrigerator before preparation, to avoid the need to run water to thaw it.
7. Repair dripping faucets by replacing washers. If your faucet is dripping at the rate of one drop per second, you can expect to waste 2,700 gallons per year.
8. Avoid flushing the toilet unnecessarily. Dispose of tissues, insects and other such waste in the trash rather than the toilet.
9. If a toilet is at least 8 years old, it may use thousands of gallons more per year than newer models. Consider either installing a new toilet or placing a "toilet dam" in the tank. If placed properly, a toilet dam can save hundreds of gallons each year.
10. Locate the master shut-off valve in your home or business. Be prepared to use it in case of a burst pipe or other emergency.