We all want to do our part when it comes to water conservation, and no one wants to overspend on their water bill. As such, reducing water consumption in your home or office is a win/win. There are some easy tweaks you can implement to start saving on your water bills today. Understanding how to conserve water will not only help you save money but can also alert you to any potential plumbing issues that could be brewing. If you detect a potential plumbing problem, remember that it’s in the best interest of your home and your pocketbook to be proactive and call in an experienced Sauk Rapids, Minnesota, plumber.
1. Have Your Water Heater Serviced
Regularly scheduled plumbing maintenance is critical to keeping your system in tiptop shape, and this maintenance includes your water heater. Older water heaters are far less efficient and are far more likely to leak than are their newer equivalents. Even a small leak will add up on your water bill, and small leaks have a way of morphing into plumbing emergencies. Don’t wait for your water heater to give you trouble, scheduling maintenance can save you time, money, and inconvenience in the long run.
2. Use Your Microwave
When we need a bit of warm or hot water in the kitchen, most of us run water out of the tap until it reaches the desired temperature. Doing so, however, is a waste of all that water that runs while we wait. Far better to heat said water in the microwave – simply place your microwave-safe cup or dish in and – with the press of a button and a few seconds – you’ll have the warm water you need without wasting gallons of water in the process.
3. Consider Upgrading Your Toilet
As long as your toilet is functioning properly, you probably don’t give it a heck of a lot of thought. The fact is, however, that if your toilet is older it’s probably far less water efficient than it could be. Consult with a reputable Sauk Rapids, Minnesota, plumber about the many options available. Upgrading your toilet to a more efficient model will not only save you money on your water bill in the long run but will also be much less likely to lead to a plumbing problem – as toilets age, their seals diminish, which can lead to leakage.
4. Don’t Run Water When You don’t Need It
This may seem obvious, but many of us are in the habit of running water while we brush our pearly whites. It’s a habit that you should break, however, if you want to conserve water and slash your water bill. Running the water while you brush your teeth has no purpose – it doesn’t even save time – so form the new habit of turning off the tap when you’re brushing. Further, consider turning off the water while you’re shampooing or shaving in the shower; you might actually find that it’s more convenient, and you can reduce the amount of water you consume while showering considerably.
5. Pay Attention to the Signs of Potential Plumbing Leaks
A leak in your plumbing is not only costly but can also morph into a plumbing emergency. If you have water collecting where it shouldn’t be, it can lead to expensive and inconvenient structural damage, to damaged personal property, and to unpleasant and unhealthy mold and mildew. Be aware of and pay attention to the warning signs of a plumbing leak:
- A water bill that is higher than usual and higher than expected is probably a sign that you have a leak somewhere in your plumbing.
- If the all too recognizable smell of mold and mildew hits you when enter your home or basement, it’s a sign that you have moisture where you shouldn’t and it’s likely due to leaky plumbing.
- If your toilet runs longer than it should or if your toilet seems to be running continually, first check the flange, and if that’s not the issue, a leak is the most likely culprit.
- If you have a leaky faucet, it’s not just an annoyance, it’s a waste of water that can really add up. Further, a leaky faucet could be trying to tell you that you have a more significant leak deeper in your plumbing system.
If any of these sound familiar, you need the professional services of a skilled Sauk Rapids, Minnesota, plumber.
Cut Your Water Costs by Consulting with a Sauk Rapids, Minnesota, Plumber Today
The dedicated plumbing professionals at Neighborhood Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning, and Electrical in Sauk Rapids, Minnesota, have the skill, experience, and professional tools to help you save money on your water bills and to help protect your home from highly expensive and inconvenient leaks. We are available 24/7, so please contact or call us at 877-817-0584 today.