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5 Surprising Ways You’re Wasting Water

Water is a precious commodity. Although the planet is approximately 71% water, 96.5% of this water is in the sea. Yet, despite all this water, only .05% of the Earth’s water is available for human consumption. It’s not surprising that 6% of the population doesn’t have access to a clean water source.

Of course, it’s not just a precious resource, it’s also an expensive one. Every drop you waste costs you money. What may surprise you is how you are wasting it.

5 Surprising Ways You’re Wasting Water

  1. Not Fixing Water Leaks

Water leaks waste water and money. They can also cause extensive damage to your property as the water will rot wood and attract pests. If you have a water leak then contact your emergency plumber and get the issue sorted as soon as possible.

Naturally, there are times when you may not know you have a leak. In most cases, there will be visible signs, such as damp patches on ceilings and walls. But, if there is nothing then it is still worth checking via the meter.

Simply take a meter reading and avoid using any water for the next couple of hours. You can then take another meter reading. If the reading has changed you have a leak. Now you just need to find it…

  1. Taking Long Showers

This is perhaps the most obvious one. The average shower lasts 7 minutes and uses 55 liters of water. If you have a shower longer than 7 minutes you are wasting water. In fact, 5 minutes is enough for most people to enjoy a shower and be considered clean.

Cutting down the length of your shower is easy, set a timer and save the planet while saving yourself money.

  1. Running Washing Machine/Dishwasher Half Full

Most modern washing machines have a half-load setting and using this is fine. But, if you aren’t using this setting, or don’t have it, then you are simply wasting water.

Whenever you put the washing machine or dishwasher on you should ensure it is with a full load. This makes it cheaper and less wasteful for both water and electricity use.

  1. Leaving The Faucet Running While Brushing Your Teeth

You should brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time. You’ll want the water during this time. But, leaving the faucet running for four minutes every day while you brush your teeth is simply a waste.

There is no reason to leave it on! Turn the faucet off and save your water. It’s surprising how much difference this will make to your annual bill.

  1. Using An Old Toilet

Old toilets had bigger flushes. In most cases, they would use upward of 7-9 liters of water per flush. Alongside this, there is no option for a quick flush versus a longer flush. To add insult to injury, your bigger flush is actually less powerful than a modern flush.

In short, it’s time to change your toilet and save water.

 

 

 

 

 

One thought on “5 Surprising Ways You’re Wasting Water

  • Love the tips. thank you.

    Reply

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