If you choose to do more than conserve water, you’re not alone. Currently, lots of people are concerned about guaranteeing future generations have access to clean drinking water – and for a good sense. Globally, fresh drinking water is surprisingly restricted – only about 3% of all the water on Earth is freshwater, and of that, 2.5% is locked in ice caps, the atmosphere, or deep underground. That leaves just 0.5% available for drinking. Water conservation is a crucial part of being a conscientious citizen of the world. And the good news is that there are many easy things that you can do to conserve water each day, even if you rent your Dane County home. Here are a few tips to get you started.
Turn Off the Taps
One of the best methods to conserve water is to reduce how much water goes down the drain. For example, you can save a lot of water by simply turning off the faucet while brushing your teeth, soaping up in the shower, or washing dishes. By using only as much water as you need, you can save hundreds of gallons of water each year.
Run Your Dishwasher
While it might seem counter-intuitive, washing dishes by hand uses a lot more water than running your dishwasher. This is especially accurate if you have a water-conserving dishwasher model. According to some estimates, you can cut your water consumption in half and save almost 5,000 gallons of water a year just by using an efficient dishwasher to wash your dishes.
Wash Full Loads
You can save water by utilizing your washing machine a bit more strategically when it comes to laundry. For example, only do laundry when you have enough to do a full load. This saves both water and energy. Or, if your budget grants, purchase a high-efficiency washing machine that will automatically adjust water levels to the amount of laundry in each load.
Opt for Water-Saving Fixtures
Another great way to conserve water is to invest in water-saving fixtures, especially showerheads and sink faucets. Low-flow showerheads can save anywhere from five to ten gallons per minute, which adds up over time! Also, if your bathroom faucets don’t already have one, think about installing an aerator. This will help maintain water pressure while reducing the water you use every time you turn on the tap. Just be sure to get your landlord’s approval, if needed, before making any permanent plumbing changes.
Keep Cooled Water in the Fridge
Instead of letting the tap water run until it’s cold enough to drink, consider keeping a jug or pitcher of water in your refrigerator instead. This can help prevent wasted water and give you instant access to that cold drink of water you’re craving.
Check for Leaks
If it’s been a while since you or your landlord has checked your home’s plumbing for leaks, that is something to add to your to-do list. Plumbing leaks, even small ones, can waste large amounts of water over time. They also cause water damage in hidden places that can eventually lead to big repair problems. You can do a visual check around faucets, toilets, and under sink cabinets. But to be completely sure that you don’t have a hidden leak somewhere, encourage your landlord to send a plumbing professional over for a full inspection. In the long run, being proactive with plumbing maintenance will save both water and money!
Taking small steps like these is a great way to conserve water. But if you’re ready for a Dane County rental home that is designed with water conservation in mind, take a look at our current listings or give Real Property Management Greater Madison Metro a call!
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