Cut Water Costs

Water is a precious resource. As much as we need water, most of us take it for granted. We waste it without giving any thought to limits, unless of course we are faced with a drought. You don't have to wait for a shortage or a drought to cut back on water consumption. There are small things you can do right now and everyday.

Conserving water not only helps the planet but it also helps our budgets by reducing costs. Following are a few tips to help you conserve water and save more money on your water and sewer costs.

• Take short showers or consider taking baths
• When you are showering turn the water off while you are lathering up.
• Turn the water off when you are not using it. This includes while you are cleaning the sink or tub or preparing the evening meal.
• When you are cleaning vegetables or herbs use a water bath rather than allowing the water to run.
• Be a good example for your children; turn the water off while you are brushing your teeth.
• Install low flow shower heads and toilets
• Listen out for running toilets
• Collect rainwater to water your plants or your garden
• Have your plumbing system inspected.
• Address any leaks inside your home immediately.
• Use a bucket of water rather than a running hose when you wash your car
• Adjust sprinklers to account for rainy weather so that the sprinklers are not running in the rain.
• Run your clothes and dishwasher only when you have a full load or adjust the water level accordingly.
• Invest in energy and water saving appliances.
• Monitor your meter readings and water bill for any spike in usage and try to determine the cause.
• Reuse water where you can. For example, when you boil pasta why not use the same water to steam or boil your vegetables?

Conserving water is simply a matter of adopting new habits and using water consciously. Get the whole family in on the plan. You can talk about the importance of conserving one of our most precious natural resources at a family meeting. Ask the family to make suggestions on ways that you can all cut back on water use and then give a few of those suggestions a try. You'll help children develop lifelong conservation habits, help the planet and make a little extra room in your household in your budget.

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