Saving water is an essential part of living sustainably and protecting our planet. By making a few changes in your daily habits, you can significantly reduce your water usage and conserve this valuable resource.
Why should you care about saving water in your daily life? Because it helps preserve our environment, reduces your water bill, and ensures there’s enough water for future generations.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 practical tips that you can easily implement at home, work, and outdoors. These simple adjustments not only make a big difference in water conservation but also promote a more eco-friendly lifestyle.
1. Fix Leaking Faucets
Leaking faucets waste a surprising amount of water each day. Even a small drip can add up over time.
Start by turning off the water supply. Look under the sink and turn the valves clockwise to stop the flow.
Next, remove the faucet handle. This usually means taking out a small screw at the base of the handle.
Inspect the parts inside for wear. Worn-out washers or seals are often the culprits. Replace any damaged parts with new ones from a hardware store.
If you have a cartridge-type faucet, lift out the cartridge and check for damage. For ball or ceramic-disk faucets, follow the specific steps for those types.
After replacing the damaged parts, reassemble the faucet, turn the water back on, and check for leaks.
Keeping your faucets in good shape with regular maintenance helps prevent leaks. Clean them with a soft cloth and mild soap to remove buildup and keep the parts moving smoothly.
Fixing leaking faucets not only conserves water but also saves you money on your water bill. Plus, it’s a simple project you can do yourself with just a few basic tools.
2. Install Low-Flow Showerheads
Switching to a low-flow showerhead is a great way to save water without giving up a refreshing shower. These showerheads reduce the water flow while maintaining good pressure.
A standard showerhead uses about 2.5 gallons per minute (GPM). Low-flow models use 2.0 GPM or less, which can save thousands of gallons yearly.
Installing one is simple. Use an adjustable wrench to remove your old showerhead. Twist counterclockwise until it comes off.
Wrap plumber’s tape around the threads of the shower arm to prevent leaks. Attach the new low-flow showerhead by twisting it clockwise until tight.
Enjoy your new showerhead knowing you’re helping save water and energy. It’s a small change with a big impact on the environment.
3. Turn off tap while brushing teeth
Turning off the tap while you brush your teeth can make a big difference. If you leave the water running, you could waste around four gallons each time.
Wet your toothbrush, then turn off the tap. Brush your teeth without water flowing down the sink. When you’re ready to rinse, turn the water back on briefly.
Doing this twice a day can save you up to eight gallons daily. That’s about 200 gallons every month. By practicing this simple habit, you’re saving a lot of water and helping the environment.
4. Use a Broom to Clean Driveways
Using a broom to clean your driveway is a great way to save water. Instead of using a hose and wasting gallons of water, you can simply sweep away dirt and debris.
Sweeping your driveway keeps it clean without impacting your water bill. It’s an effective and eco-friendly method.
You can save up to 80 gallons of water each time you choose a broom over a hose. That’s a lot of water saved over time.
By using a broom, you also avoid the runoff that can carry pollutants to storm drains. It’s a simple step that’s better for our environment. Try to make it a habit.
5. Run Dishwashers Only When Full
Running your dishwasher only when it’s full is a great way to save water. Dishwashers are designed to clean a full load efficiently, using less water than washing the same number of dishes by hand.
When you wait for a full load, you maximize the dishwasher’s efficiency. This means you use the same amount of water for more dishes.
Using your dishwasher’s eco or water-saving cycle can save even more water. These settings are designed to use less water and energy while still getting your dishes clean.
It might take a bit longer to fill up your dishwasher, but the water savings are worth it. Try to load it with all the dishes from your day rather than running it half-full.
If you don’t quite reach a full load by the end of the day, consider a quick rinse to prevent food from hardening. Then, wait until you have a complete load before running the dishwasher.
Not only does this method save water, but it also reduces your electricity use. Running fewer cycles means less energy consumption, which helps the environment and your wallet.
6. Use Water-Efficient Toilets
Switching to a water-efficient toilet can save a lot of water. Traditional toilets use about 1.6 gallons per flush, while high-efficiency models use only 1.28 gallons or less. That means you save almost half a gallon each time you flush.
If you can’t replace your toilet, try placing a sealed half-gallon plastic jug filled with water in the tank. This method reduces the amount of water used per flush.
Another option is to install a tank bank or float booster. These inexpensive devices help cut down on the water needed for each flush. Make sure your toilet still flushes properly with at least three gallons remaining in the tank.
Composting toilets are another alternative. They use no water and turn human waste into compost. These toilets are ideal for homes wanting to reduce overall water use significantly.
By updating your toilet or making small adjustments, you can save water and money every day. Plus, it’s an easy way to make your home more eco-friendly.
7. Water plants early morning
Watering your plants in the early morning is a great way to save water. During this time, the temperatures are cooler. This means less water evaporates, and more gets absorbed by the plants.
Morning watering helps your plants stay hydrated throughout the day. They can better handle the heat as they have more moisture. This improves their overall health.
If you water in the middle of the day, much of the water may evaporate. This wastes both water and your effort. It’s better to avoid watering during the hottest parts of the day.
Watering in the evening is an option, but it can lead to problems. Wet leaves overnight can promote fungal growth. Morning is the safest bet to keep your plants healthy and happy.
Try to make watering in the early morning a habit. Your plants will thrive, and you’ll reduce water waste. It’s a simple shift that makes a big difference.
8. Collect rainwater for gardening
Collecting rainwater is a great way to save water. It’s easy to get started. You can set up a basic system with just a few items.
First, get a rain barrel. Place it under a downspout to catch water from your roof. You’ll be amazed at how much water you can collect from even a small shower.
Make sure your rain barrel has a secure lid. This will keep out leaves, insects, and animals. You can also add a screen to filter out debris.
When it’s time to water your plants, use the rainwater. It’s better for your garden because it’s free of chemicals like chlorine that are often in tap water.
Remember, rainwater is not safe to drink without treatment. Use it only for your garden and other outdoor tasks like washing your car.
If you have more space, consider connecting multiple barrels. This will allow you to collect more water during heavy rains.
Using rainwater helps you conserve water and reduce your utility bills. Plus, your plants will thrive on the natural water source. It’s a win-win for you and the environment!
9. Limit Water Usage in Lawn
Water your lawn early in the morning or late in the evening. This helps reduce water loss due to evaporation.
Use drought-tolerant grass types that need less water. Ask your local garden center for advice on the best options for your area.
Consider installing a rain barrel. Collecting rainwater can provide a free and natural source for watering your lawn.
Set up a sprinkler system with timers. This way, you control the amount you use and avoid overwatering. Be sure to check your system regularly for leaks.
Let your grass grow a little longer. Taller grass shades the soil, reducing evaporation and keeping the ground moist.
Mulch around plants and trees. Mulch assists in keeping moisture in the soil and reducing the need for frequent watering.
Use a broom instead of a hose to clean driveways and sidewalks. This small change can save a lot of water.
Lastly, monitor weather forecasts. Skip watering if rain is expected soon. Your lawn will thank you and so will your water bill!
10. Use a Timer for Showers
Using a timer for showers is a simple way to save water. Set a timer for 5 to 10 minutes and challenge yourself to finish before it goes off.
Practice turning off the water while you lather up. You only need the water running for rinsing. This quick change can save gallons of water each time you shower.
Being mindful of your shower time not only conserves water but also saves on your water bill. Plus, you’ll find that you still feel just as clean with shorter showers.
11. Check for toilet leaks
Toilet leaks can waste a lot of water. Checking for leaks is simple and can save you money. Start by lifting the tank cover. Put a few drops of food coloring into the tank. Wait about 15 to 20 minutes without flushing.
If you see color in the bowl, you have a leak. It means water is leaking from the tank to the bowl. Fixing these leaks can prevent water waste.
Another way to check is by looking at your water meter. Turn off all water faucets in your home. Check the meter and wait two hours without using any water. If the meter changes, you likely have a leak somewhere.
Regular checks are essential. Even small leaks can add up over time. Replacing old toilet parts can be an easy fix.
Learning to spot and fix leaks is important. It keeps your home running efficiently. It also helps conserve water, a precious resource.
12. Use washing machines with full loads
When you wash clothes, fill your washing machine to its capacity. A full load ensures that you’re using the machine efficiently and not wasting water on small batches.
Avoid running the machine for just a few items. It costs the same amount of water and energy, regardless of the load size. Waiting until you have a full load saves both water and money.
Use the appropriate water level settings if your machine allows. Some machines have settings for small, medium, or large loads. Choose the correct setting to match the amount of laundry to avoid using more water than necessary.
Cold water settings can also be beneficial. Washing with cold water saves energy, and many detergents are now designed to clean effectively at lower temperatures.
Remember, by only washing full loads, you’re making a big difference in reducing water usage in your household. Small steps like these help conserve resources and reduce your utility bills.
13. Reuse Towels to Save Washing
Reusing towels is a simple way to cut down on water and energy use. Each time you wash towels, you use a lot of water and electricity. By reusing them, you reduce the number of laundry loads.
Hang your towel after each use to let it dry. This helps keep it fresh for your next shower. You can usually use the same towel for several days before it needs washing.
In hotels, reusing towels is promoted to save water and reduce laundry costs. It’s a great habit to adopt at home too. Encourage your family to do the same, and you’ll see a noticeable difference in your utility bills.
Plus, reusing towels helps them last longer. Frequent washing can wear out the fabric, but using towels multiple times between washes can extend their life.
Next time, think twice before tossing your towel in the laundry basket. Hanging it up to dry is good for the environment and your wallet.
14. Opt for Drought-Resistant Plants
Choosing drought-resistant plants is a smart way to save water. These plants need less water to thrive and can handle dry conditions better.
Thyme is a great example. It’s an herb that smells nice and tastes good in food. It grows well in full sun to partial shade and only needs water now and then.
Salvia is another good choice. This plant comes in many colors, like red, indigo, and white. It blooms for a long time and attracts bees and butterflies.
Mulching around these plants helps keep the soil moist. A layer of mulch reduces water evaporation, making your garden even more water-efficient.
Plants with deep roots, like lavender, also work well. Deep roots allow them to access water that’s further down in the soil, reducing the need for frequent watering.
Planting these types of plants can make a big difference in your water use. Your garden will look beautiful, and you’ll save water at the same time.
If you’re planting new plants, try to do it in the spring or fall. Cooler temperatures mean the soil retains moisture better, helping these drought-resistant plants get off to a good start.
15. Wash fruits in a bowl not under running water
When you wash fruits, using a bowl instead of running water can save a lot of water. Just fill a bowl with enough water to cover the fruits.
Swish the fruits around gently in the water to remove dirt and residues. You can even use a soft brush for fruits with tough skins.
After washing, use the leftover water for your plants. This way, you reuse the water and help your garden grow.
This simple switch can make a big difference in your water usage. It’s an easy step you can take to be more eco-friendly in your kitchen.
16. Shorten Your Shower Time
Cutting back on your shower time is a simple way to save water. The average American shower uses about 20 gallons of water. Reducing the duration of your shower by just a few minutes can make a big difference.
Aim to shave off at least 2 to 3 minutes from your usual shower. This small change can help you save around 10 gallons of water each time.
Switching to a water-saving shower head can also help. Older models may use up to 5 gallons per minute, while newer, low-flow models use only about 2 gallons per minute.
Start by turning off the water while you apply shampoo and soap. Then, turn it back on to rinse off. This simple habit can significantly cut your water usage.
Set a timer or play a short song to remind you when to finish your shower. This makes it easier to stick to your goal of shorter showers.
Involving the whole family can amplify the impact. Encourage everyone in your household to take shorter showers and see the combined savings add up.
17. Install Aerators on Taps
Installing aerators on your taps is a simple way to save water. Aerators are small devices that you can screw onto the end of your taps. They control the flow of water, helping you use less without affecting the pressure.
To install an aerator, you don’t need any special skills. First, unscrew the old aerator from the tap. If the aerator is stuck, use a wet washcloth to get a better grip.
Once removed, take the old aerator to the store to find the right replacement. Bathroom taps usually need a 1.0 or 1.5 gallon per minute (gpm) aerator. Kitchen taps often need a 2 gpm aerator since you use more water there.
When you have the new aerator, screw it onto the tap. Twist it clockwise and tighten it with your fingers. Turn on the tap slightly to check for leaks. If it drips, tighten it a little more.
Using aerators can help reduce water waste. It’s a small change that makes a big difference. Plus, it’s an easy and cheap way to save water in your home.
18. Cover Swimming Pools to Reduce Evaporation
Using a pool cover is one of the easiest ways to save water. Pool covers can cut water loss from evaporation by up to 95%. This means less refilling and more water saved.
Pool covers also help retain heat, which can save energy if you heat your pool. On hot days and cold nights, the cover acts like a shield, keeping the water where it belongs.
It’s not just about saving water. A pool cover can also keep your pool cleaner by blocking out debris. This means less cleaning time for you.
Consider investing in a good pool cover and a roller for easy use. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference for both your pool and the environment.
19. Don’t Thaw Food Under Running Water
Thawing food under running water can waste a lot of water quickly. Even a low-flow tap can use up to 2.2 gallons per minute. It’s better to plan ahead and move your frozen food from the freezer to the refrigerator the night before.
This method keeps your food safe too. Defrosting in the fridge reduces the risk of bacteria growth, which can happen if food is left out at room temperature or thawed with warm water.
Using this simple tip helps conserve water and keeps your food in a safe range. Try to incorporate this habit into your daily routine.
20. Repurpose cooking water for plants
Instead of pouring your cooking water down the drain, use it to water your plants. Cooking water from boiled vegetables, pasta, or rice often contains nutrients that can be beneficial for your plants. The vitamins and minerals left behind can help your garden grow stronger.
Let the cooking water cool down to room temperature before using it. Hot water can harm plant roots. Once cooled, pour it directly into the soil around your plants. Make sure your cooking water doesn’t have salt, oil, or strong spices, as these could harm your plants.
Using cooking water is an easy way to recycle and give your plants an extra boost. Give this simple habit a try and see the positive effects on your garden. It’s a small change that can make a big difference.
