Water Conservation

We all know water is a renewable resource.  But did you know, that the worlds supply of clean, usable water is decreasing faster than it can be replenished?

A average household family uses 127,000 gallons of water per year.  Here are some simple tips on how you can help reduce that number and save some money on your water costs while you do.

1. Run your clothes washer and dishwasher only when they are full. You can save up to 1,000 gallons a month.
2. Monitor your water bill for unusually high use. Your bill and water meter are tools that can help you discover leaks.
3. When washing dishes by hand, do not leave the water running for rinsing.
4. Replace your regular showerheads with low-flow showerheads. (Can save up to 230 gallons a week.)
5. Replace your older model toilets with new ultra-low-flush models. (Can save up to 350 gallons a week.)
6. Water your lawn and landscaping before dawn or after the sun sets when there’s less evaporation. Adjust your sprinklers so they don’t spray on sidewalks, driveway or street. (Can save up to 250 gallons a week.)
7. Put food coloring in your toilet tank. If it seeps into the toilet bowl without flushing, you possibly have a leak. Fixing it can save up to 1,000 gallons a month.
8. Use a commercial car wash that recycles water.
9. Install an instant water heater near your kitchen sink so you don’t have to run the water while it heats up. This also reduces energy costs.
10. When shopping for a new clothes washer, compare resource savings among Energy Star models. Some of these can save up to 20 gallons per load, and energy too.

Here in Carmel Valley,  I have run into many residents that are highly interested in water conservation.  It might have to do with the fact that we live so close to the beach and water is very much part of our lives, that we acknowledge that we have the ability to make a difference.

As a community we would like to remind others that there are many ways for you to save our precious clean water, and they all start with you.  Remember the more water you save, the more money you’ll save! For more tips on conserving water check out The City Of San Diego Water Conservation Tips.

-Luis,  your San Diego – Carmel Valley Plumber