5 Ways to Conserve Water at Home

We can all do our part to help protect our environment by making smart choices with our water usage. In addition to saving money on your utility bill, water conservation helps prevent water pollution, extend the life of your septic system, and protect our local water supply. Learn more about some easy updates you can make to your home’s plumbing to help practice better water conservation:

1) Consider Going Low-Flow

Bathrooms are the largest source of water use in the home, using more than 50 percent of all indoor water, which means the bathroom is a great opportunity for major water savings. A low-flow showerhead uses less than half the water of a standard model. Replacing old, inefficient bathroom faucets and aerators with WaterSense labeled models can save the average family nearly 11,000 gallons of water over the faucets’ lifetime, according to the EPA.

2) Invest in water-saving appliances

Much like EnergyStar certifies that appliances meet a standard of energy efficiency, the WaterSense label from the EPA makes it simple to find water-efficient products, that meet a baseline criterion for efficiency and performance. WaterSense-labeled products and services are certified to use at least 20 percent less water, save energy, and perform as well as or better than regular models, which means you don’t have to sacrifice performance in your washer, dishwasher, or water heaters to get better water savings.

3) Maintain your plumbing

Did you know that a single, small drip from a worn faucet washer can waste 20 gallons of water per day? Larger leaks can waste hundreds of gallons, even before you consider the potential for water damage to your property. With the JK Plumbing Agreement, you receive an annual test and inspection of your faucets, drains, sump pump, hoses, water valve, and more. Click here to learn more about the great benefits of our JK Plumbing Agreement.

4) Update Toilets

Fun fact: toilet flushing is the largest indoor use of water in single-family homes accounting for about 24 percent of all household water use, according to the American Water Works Association. Replacing an old toilet with a newer and more efficient model can cut water usage by up to 70%, in addition to giving your bath or powder room a fresh new look and better comfort with features like no-slam seats, comfort height styles, and more.

Bonus tip: Not ready to replace your toilet? Use a budget-friendly or DIY tank insert to cut down on wasted water in your tank.

5) Add leak-stopping technology

The best way to avoid water damage and waste is to prevent it. JK Plumbing Manager Casey Blackwell recommends the Moen Flo, a smart water shutoff that monitors water usage, detects leaks as small as a drop per minute, and can be controlled right from your phone or computer. For single-location leak detection, such as next to your water heater or beneath a sink, JK Mechanical also recommends the Honeywell Lyric Leak & Freeze Detector, which connects to Wi-Fi to send you an alert when it senses a leak or freeze in your home. To learn more or request a quote, contact the JK Plumbing department today.