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Extreme heat during the summertime in West and Southwest Michigan makes it incredibly important to conserve water. Dry spells can put a strain on the area’s water supply. There is also an increased demand for things like watering grass and plants and filling pools.
There are simple ways that you can contribute to water conservation in Michigan this summer. This is beneficial for your community but also for the environment, as it helps protect our delicate aquatic ecosystem. Water conservation also has the bonus of keeping your utility bills in an affordable range.
The Process of Washing Dishes
There is the potential to waste a lot of water when you’re washing your dishes. If you’re completing this chore by hand, consider turning the water off unless you need to rinse a dish after it has been scrubbed. Fill one side of your sink with soapy water to prevent constant use of your faucet.
If you’re using a dishwasher to wash your dishes, consider the different cycles that your specific appliance can run. Most dishwashers have at least one efficient cycle that minimizes water use. Avoid running your dishwasher if it’s only partially full. Instead, wash dishes by hand or wait until the dishwasher is full to turn it on.
Brushing Your Teeth
When you begin the process of brushing your teeth, run the water for a few seconds to moisten your brush. Then, turn the water off for the time being. You can turn the water back on when you need to rinse your toothbrush and mouth. Running the water while brushing your teeth for just a couple of minutes can waste approximately four gallons of water.
Invest in Water-Saving Fixtures
Consider upgrading the various fixtures in your bathroom, such as your toilet, faucets and showerheads. There are often versions available that use less water than the older ones you already have in place. It may take some getting used to when you notice a slightly slower flow of water, but you still get plenty of water to complete things like washing your hands, showering and flushing the toilet.
Use a Shower Timer
A hot shower at the end of a long day is a great way to relax. However, this process can waste a lot of water. Use a simple shower timer to limit the amount of time that you’re in the shower. Ideally, try to complete the process within five minutes. Generally, a shower uses less water than a bath. Try to limit baths to a couple of times per week during the summer months or avoid them altogether.
Set a Watering Schedule
When we experience a drought in our area, this can make the grass look brown and unhealthy. It helps if you can water your lawn and landscaping periodically; however, this uses a lot of water. The best time of day to water is early in the morning or late at night. The water won’t evaporate quickly, which is beneficial for water conservation and your landscaping as well.
You should also pay close attention to where your sprinklers are pointed. Avoid sprinkler overspray onto sidewalks and roads that don’t need watering. Consider collecting rainwater and using that to water your plants instead of using water from outdoor spigots.
A drip irrigation system is an efficient way to water your yard. This setup delivers water directly to the roots, eliminating the risk of evaporation or runoff. It also uses a minimal amount of water.
Have your sprinkler system professionally inspected by our team prior to the start of summer. If you have any leaks present, this can lead to unnecessary water waste.
Consider Landscaping and Plants That Don’t Require Much Water
Invest in drought-resistant plants. They won’t require much water, which is great from a conservation standpoint but also saves you time by not having to water.
Adding a layer of mulch to your landscaping can help keep the earth moist without having to water frequently. It also protects the delicate root system of your plants so your garden thrives.
Schedule Routine Plumbing Inspections
You should schedule a routine plumbing inspection at least once per year. This process allows our team to spot even minor leaks that are contributing to water waste. We can help you determine if there are any upgrades you can make to your plumbing system that will reduce the amount of water your residence uses each day.
You can perform simple plumbing inspection tasks yourself as well. A common culprit is your toilet. Add a few drops of food coloring to the top tank of your toilet. Come back 20 to 30 minutes later and check the inside of the toilet bowl. If you see colored water in the bowl, there is a link between the top tank and bowl that requires repair. If the water is clear, your toilet is working properly and not wasting any water. You may still want to think about investing in a low-flow toilet, however.
Consider the Use of Your Appliances
There are several appliances in your home that have the potential to waste water. This includes your washing machine and dishwasher. Not only should you consider upgrading to more water-efficient models if your equipment is old but also think about how you use your appliances. Avoid running them if it’s not necessary. Wait for a full load of dirty laundry before turning on your washer. You may also be able to adjust the amount of water used based on the load size.
Washing machines frequently come with an automatic sensing water level feature. Your washer will determine how much water needs to be added to the basin based on the amount of clothes that need washing. Minimal amounts of water are used to wash and rinse the clothing.
The Process of Cleaning
If you head outside to wash your car or need to scrub something like lawn furniture, avoid using the hose on full blast or using a power washer. These methods waste a lot of water. Instead, use a bucket filled with water and soap. Reuse that same soapy water until it’s time to rinse. Then, you can use clean water quickly.
When cleaning the inside of your home, use a spray bottle with water to wipe down surfaces. This prevents you from having to run your faucet frequently in order to completely soak sponges or rags. You can also use dry dusters or cloths to wipe down the surfaces in your home without using any water.
Contact Us Today
Service Professor cares about the communities of West and Southwest Michigan. We want to help you conserve water in your residence. We can perform routine maintenance and repairs for your plumbing system, including your water heater. Our services include leak detection and fixture installation to help conserve water. Contact our team at Service Professor in West and Southwest Michigan today for more information or to schedule an appointment.
