Home Maintenance: Easy Tips for Water Conservation
We often take water for granted—it’s always there when we need it. But events like California’s drought reminded us that water is precious and not as abundant as we think. Water conservation isn’t just about lowering your utility bills (though that’s a great bonus); it’s also about protecting the environment and using resources more responsibly. Did you know the average American uses 80 to 100 gallons of water every day?Â
Most of that comes from toilets, showers, and laundry. With just a few simple home maintenance changes, we can all cut down on water use and make a big difference for the planet—and our wallets.
In this post, we’re sharing some easy water conservation tips and maintenance strategies to help you conserve water, save money, and keep your home in great shape.
Why Should You Save Water?
- Save on Your Water Bills: Little changes can go a long way. Using water more efficiently can lead to noticeable savings on your monthly bills, and those savings add up over time.
- Protect the Environment: Saving water means saving energy too. Less water use means less strain on local water supplies and ecosystems, not to mention reducing the energy needed for water treatment and distribution. It’s a win-win for you and the planet!
- Keep Your Home in Top Shape: Using water wisely can even protect your home. Reducing water flow and fixing leaks helps prevent wear and tear on your plumbing and appliances, saving you from costly repairs down the road.
Here are some of the best tips for water conservation:
Outdoor Water - Saving Tips for Your Lawn and Garden
Your lawn and garden are some of the biggest water-users in your home, but there are plenty of easy ways to cut down on waste:
- Water Early in the Morning: Watering before the sun is up means less evaporation and more hydration for your plants. Bonus: it also helps prevent mildew or rot!Â
- Use Smarter Watering Tools: Trade traditional sprinklers for soaker hoses or drip irrigation. These tools get water straight to the roots, where it’s needed most, and reduce water loss from evaporation.Â
- Adjust Your Sprinklers: Make sure your sprinklers are only hitting the lawn and plants—not the driveway or sidewalks. Redirecting water to where it’s actually needed makes a big difference.Â
- Switch to Drought-Friendly Landscaping: Swap out water-hungry grass for drought-tolerant plants, succulents, or native vegetation that require minimal watering. Or, if you’re ready to go all-in, consider installing artificial turf—zero water needed!
By making even a few of these changes, you’ll save water, lower your energy bills, and do your part to protect the planet. It’s easier than you think, and every drop counts!
Water Conservation Tips - Car Washing
Washing your car might not seem like a big deal, but it can waste a lot of water if you’re not careful. Here are some easy ways to save:
- Use a Commercial Car Wash: Did you know using a garden hose can waste way more water than you need? Instead, head to a commercial or self-serve car wash—they use efficient systems that only need about 10 gallons of water per wash.
- Get Creative at Home: Prefer to wash your car at home? Try using rainwater you’ve collected or stick to a bucket of water to cut down on waste. If you’re using a hose, add a nozzle to control the flow and avoid unnecessary runoff.
Water Conservation Tips - Rainwater Harvesting
Rainwater is a free resource, so why not make the most of it? Harvesting rainwater is a simple way to cut down on your tap water use:Â
- Set Up a Rain Barrel: A rain barrel or cistern can collect water from your gutters, giving you a ready supply for tasks like watering plants, cleaning, or even washing your car.Â
- Keep Your Gutters Clear: Make sure your gutters and downspouts are in good shape so they can properly direct water into your rain barrel. Clogs and damage can mess up your collection efforts.Â
- Use It Where It Counts: Rainwater is perfect for non-drinking tasks like watering the garden or cleaning outdoor surfaces. Using it for these jobs helps you rely less on treated tap water.Â
Water Conservation Tips - Plumbing
Inside your home, there are plenty of ways to save water with just a few small upgrades:Â
- Upgrade Fixtures: Swap out old fixtures for water-saving ones like low-flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads. For example, low-flow toilets use only 1.6 gallons per flush, compared to older ones that can gulp up to 7 gallons! Over time, these upgrades can save you thousands of gallons of water.Â
- Fix Those Leaks: Even tiny leaks can waste a shocking amount of water. A dripping faucet or a small pipe leak can add up to gallons wasted every single day. Do a quick check around your home for leaks and get them fixed ASAP.Â
Water Conservation Tips - Major Appliances
Your appliances can make a big difference in how much water you use. Here’s how to make smarter choices:Â
- Dishwashers Save More Water: Believe it or not, using a modern dishwasher uses way less water than handwashing. According to Energy Star, it can save up to 5,000 gallons of water a year—plus 230 hours of your time!Â
- Install a Water Efficient Washer: When it’s time for a new washing machine, go for one with the Energy Star label. They use less water and energy, saving up to 3,000 gallons of water and cutting your utility bill by $40 a year.
- Wash Only Full Loads of Clothings: Running a full load of laundry uses less water than two half-loads. You’ll save 3,400 gallons of water per year.
Check for a lable like these to see how much you could save with an energy-efficient appliance.
Make sure you keep your washer load full to conserve water but not too full to throw the machine out of alignment.
Ready to Save Water and Save Money?
Saving water doesn’t just help the environment—it also lowers your bills. By making simple changes like upgrading fixtures, collecting rainwater, and choosing efficient appliances, you’re taking a big step toward a more sustainable lifestyle.Â
Not sure where to start? A home maintenance and plumbing specialist can help you figure out where your home might be wasting water and offer personalized solutions.Â
If you’re in Sacramento, give Fix-it Rite a call! We specialize in plumbing, electrical, and everything home maintenance. Call us at 916-363-6022 today and start saving water—and money!