The average person uses around 3000 gallons of water a month and the average family uses around 9,000 gallons. All this adds up to around $83 per month for the average American family. Here are some tips to keep your water usage down and save money each month.
Switch to Low Flow Shower heads
The EPA estimates that the average family can save around $70 a year on their water bills by switching to a low flow shower head. Not only can you save money on your water bill, but you can also save money on your natural gas or electric bill by using less hot water and putting less strain on your water heater.
Fix Leaks
Not only is a drippy faucet annoying, it wastes water, which can add up to gallons (and dollars) per month.
Use Aerators on Faucets
Adding an aerator to your older faucets can reduce usage by up to 30% and they are easy to install. Aerators screw onto the faucet head and infuse air into the water. This makes the water more compact and creates a more consistent and efficient stream of water.
Switch to Low Flow Toilets
Since toilets account for around 30% of your homes water usage switching to a toilet that uses less water and is more efficient can save you a bunch. The EPA estimates you can save as much as $140 a year by using more efficient toilets.
A quick trick if you don’t want to upgrade your toilets is to add a plastic bottle to the tank of your toilet. The bottle takes up space that is usually filled with water and thus your toilet will use less water on each flush.
Use Your Dishwasher For All Your Dishes
Using your dishwasher instead of washing dishes by hand can save up to 6000 gallons a year. The key is to wait until your dishwasher is full before you run it. If you have a newer dishwasher, skipping the pre-rinse cycle will maximize your savings.
Do Full Loads of Laundry
It may be tempting to just throw your favorite jeans in the washing machine by themselves, but waiting until you have a full load can save you a bunch on your water and electric bill.
Take Quicker or Less Showers
Switching up your showering habits can make a big dent in your water usage. The average person spends 8 minutes in the shower, which equates to around 20 gallons of water. Taking fewer or shorter showers can add up to big savings.
Switch to Energy Star Rated Appliances
When it’s time to purchase a new dishwasher or washing machine, make sure it’s energy star rated. An energy star rated dishwasher uses only a third of the water that an older dishwasher would use.
Turn off the Water While You Brush Your Teeth
I know, you’ve heard this since you were a kid, but it can save you money. Turn off the faucet while you are brushing your teeth instead of letting it run.
It really is the small things that make a difference. A little bit here and there can really add up to big savings on your water bill. A lot of these items don’t require you to spend any money either, just changing your habits slightly can make a big difference.