Do you want to cut costs on your water bill? Of course, you do! Water bills can add up each month, adding to your already growing pile of expenses.
Water conservation is not only crucial for the environment but can also lead to substantial savings. Here are 12 effective ways to cut costs on your water bill and lower your monthly expenses.
1. Fix Leaks Promptly
A small drip from a leaking faucet or toilet can waste gallons of water daily without you even realizing it. Fix those leaks as soon as possible to reduce water wastage and save money.
2. Install Water-Efficient Fixtures
Sometimes you have to spend money now to save money later. If you have it in the budget, replace old fixtures with water-efficient models. Low-flow showerheads, faucets, and toilets can significantly reduce your water usage.
3. Use Water-Saving Appliances
As long as it’s in the budget, upgrade to energy-efficient appliances that use less water. Dishwashers and washing machines with an Energy Star label are designed to minimize water and energy use without sacrificing performance.
4. Shorten Your Showers
One of the easiest ways to cut costs on your water bill is to spend less time in the shower. Even reducing your shower by a minute or two can save up to 150 gallons of water per month. Aim to take 10-minute showers, and skip the baths if possible.
5. Turn Off the Tap
Don’t let the water run while brushing your teeth, washing your hands, or shaving. Turning off the tap can save up to 8 gallons of water per day, which will add up when it comes to lowering your water bill.
6. Water Lawns Wisely
Water your garden or lawn during the cooler parts of the day to reduce evaporation. Also, consider watering less frequently but more deeply to encourage root growth and drought tolerance without having to pay an exorbitant water bill later.
7. Use a Rain Barrel
By being environmentally conscious, you can significantly cut costs on your water bill. Collect rainwater in a barrel to water your garden, wash your car, or clean your windows.
8. Mulch Your Plants
Applying mulch around plants reduces evaporation, keeping the soil moist longer. You can save hundreds of gallons of water per year just by taking some time to lay down mulch in your garden.
9. Run Full Loads
Be strategic about when you use your dishwasher and washing machine. Always run these appliances with full loads, which maximizes efficiency and reduces the number of cycles you run each month.
10. Sweep, Don’t Hose
Use a broom to clean driveways, sidewalks, and steps rather than hosing them down. This simple change can save gallons of water each time, and make the front of your house look even more inviting.
11. Check for Hidden Leaks
Monitor your water bill and usage for unusually high use, which could indicate hidden leaks. An easy method is to read your water meter before and after a two-hour period when no water is being used.
12. Educate Your Household
Make sure everyone in your home knows how to be water-wise. Encouraging habits like turning off the tap and checking for leaks can lead to collective household savings.
Cut Water, Save Money
Lowering your water bill can be a real game-changer when it comes to your monthly expenses. Luckily, there are many easy strategies that you can start doing now for free. However, if you do have it in the budget, invest in water-efficient fixtures and appliances, or get a rain barrel for your backyard. Every little change makes a huge difference!
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Alyssa Serio has been a writer and editor since graduating from Aurora University in 2014. In her free time, she loves reading, playing volleyball, and watching any horror movie (even the bad ones) with her husband.