5 Ways Denver Homeowners Can Save Water
As any Denver resident knows, water is a precious resource in the Mile High City. With the semi-arid climate and growing population, conserving water is more important than ever. This not only helps the environment but can also save you money on your water bill. Here are five ways Denver homeowners can save water.
1. Install Low-Flow Fixtures
One of the simplest ways to reduce your water usage is to install low-flow fixtures in your home. This includes low-flow showerheads, toilets, and faucets. Low-flow fixtures use less water than standard fixtures, so you’ll save water every time you turn on the tap or take a shower. You can find low-flow fixtures at most hardware stores.
If you’re not ready to replace all of your fixtures, you can still save water by installing aerators on your faucets. Aerators attach to the end of your faucet and mix air with the water, which reduces the amount of water that comes out. You can find aerators at most hardware stores as well.
2. Fix Leaks
According to the EPA, one in ten homes in America has at least one leak. These leaks can waste hundreds of gallons of water each year, so fixing them as soon as possible is important. The first step is to check all the fixtures in your home for leaks. This includes faucets, toilets, showers, and any other fixture you have. To test for leaks, simply turn off all the fixtures in your home and check your water meter. If the meter is still moving, you have a leak.
Once you’ve found a leak, it’s important to fix it as soon as possible. Toilet leaks are usually caused by a faulty flapper, which is a relatively easy and inexpensive fix. If you have a leaky faucet, you may need to replace the washers or other parts. If you’re unsure how to fix the leak, you can always call a plumber.
3. Don’t Let the Water Run
One of the simplest ways to save water is to turn off the tap when you’re not using it. This includes when you’re brushing your teeth, washing your hands, or doing the dishes. You can also save water by taking shorter showers. A five-minute shower uses less water than a bath, so you’ll save even more water if you reduce your shower time.
In the kitchen, you can save water by washing your fruits and vegetables in a bowl of water instead of letting the tap run. When you’re cooking, only boil as much water as you need. And when you’re doing the dishes, fill up the sink with soapy water instead of letting the water run the whole time.
4. Use More Efficient Cleaning Methods
Cleaning your home doesn’t have to be a water-intensive process. There are plenty of ways to clean your home without using a lot of water. For example, according to the Long Beach Water Department, a pressure washer consumes 2 gallons of water per minute, whereas garden hoses use 20 gallons per minute. If you’re hosing down your driveway or patio, you’re using a lot more water than you need to. You can also use a damp cloth to wipe down surfaces instead of using a hose or pressure washer. When you’re doing laundry, only wash full loads of clothes.
5. Invest in An Efficient Irrigation System
You can save water by investing in an efficient irrigation system if you have a lawn or garden. Drip irrigation systems deliver water directly to the roots of your plants, so very little water is wasted. These systems are relatively inexpensive and easy to install and can save you a lot of water in the long run. You can also water your plants in the morning or evening when evaporation is less likely.
Remember, according to the EPA, a minor leak can waste as much as 10,000 gallons of water each year. So if you’re not using all that water, you’re wasting it. Be sure to fix any leaks in your home as soon as possible, and take steps to reduce your overall water usage. By following these simple tips, you can save water and money each month.
