Conserving water is a hot topic these days. We’re using 127 percent more water than we did 50 years ago, and water conservation is a topic that’s never been more important. Even a few simple changes in our routines can help the Earth. Here are some of the best ways to conserve water this spring.
Reduce outdoor watering
The spring and summer seasons often coincide with rising temperatures, and with that, rising outdoor water usage. The timing of when to water your yard can have a big impact on your water bill, and on community water supplies. Many experts estimate that about 50 percent of outdoor water is wasted. This is due to evaporation, wind, and overwatering. If you want to conserve water, cut back on outdoor watering this spring.
Rather than using sprinklers, use a soaker hose to water your landscape instead. This way, you deliver the water directly to the roots of the plants. By doing so, you can conserve as much as 90 percent of the water you use. Also, remember to water during the morning, rather than in the afternoon or evening, to prevent evaporation. In addition, evening watering can lead to fungal diseases.
Install low-flow aerators
Installing low-flow aerators on your faucets can save you a significant amount of water. A single aerator reduces the amount of water used when taking a shower by up to 40%. Installing low-flow aerators can lower your monthly water bill by as much as 700 gallons a year – the equivalent of about 40 full showers. You can even save more water by installing a low-flow toilet. These toilets are generally louder than the traditional gravity-flush toilet and require a power source.
If you are not sure if you have a low-flow kitchen faucet, it is possible to purchase a low-flow aerator to reduce the flow rate. These aerators are inexpensive and simple to install. They can reduce the flow rate from four gallons per minute to as little as 2.5 gallons. Installing one of these aerators on your faucet is an easy way to conserve water this spring.
Aerate your lawn
Aeration is an essential step in lawn care. Without it, your lawn may become overly compacted and unhealthy, allowing little to no water and air to reach the roots. This can cause grass to die off and weeds to overgrow. The best time to aerate your lawn is before the soil dries out.
When aerating your lawn, you should aim to create three to four-inch holes in your lawn. Make two passes through the lawn to create the desired depth. Make sure to use aeration machines with long tines, which will allow water and fertilizer to reach the roots of your lawn more deeply.
Reuse pasta water
Pasta water is not only useful for cooking but can also be a great resource for water conservation this spring. Save it and reuse it to cook vegetables or thin sauces. The starch content of pasta water can help your plants retain water, and you can also use it to boil eggs and vegetables. Reusing the water can also save you gallons of water each week!
To save water this spring, try to use pasta water instead of washing it in the sink. Pasta water is highly versatile, and many people end up throwing it out. You can save one cup of water per pound of pasta you cook. You can also use the water to water your household plants.
Cut down on long showers
Showering consumes an astounding amount of water. One shower can use up to 17 gallons of water. This is more than the average family uses for two people. Cutting down on the duration of your showers can save hundreds of gallons of water each year. It can also make you feel more refreshed and awake.
Showers are the third-highest source of indoor water consumption, accounting for 20 percent. A recent study by the Water Research Foundation found that the average eight-minute shower uses up to 17 gallons of water. For a 10-minute shower, a similar amount of water is consumed.
Install grey water system
Installing a grey water system is an excellent way to conserve water in the home. The process is relatively easy, but there are several things to remember. First, always consult a professional plumber before beginning any major plumbing project. In addition, it is important to understand the local regulations when it comes to greywater systems. You should also know what you should look for in a system and how to avoid common mistakes.
Greywater can be used for a variety of purposes. For example, it can be used to water fruit trees, berries and other plants. The most common gray water system involves running water from a washing machine through pipes to the garden or yard. You can install a simple system yourself, but more complicated ones require a professional.
