How much is that drip costing you?
Many people who have wells on their property overlook the costs of not conserving water. It is true that you do not receive a bill from your local water utility, however not keeping an eye on your H2O consumption is still expensive.
Most residential wells are powered by electricity which is not inexpensive. In addition, cutting down on the amount of water you use reduces the amount of water going into your septic . This cuts back on saturation which extends your septic systems life. Septic systems typically range from $5,000 - $15,000 , its a good idea to squeeze as much life out of that hole in the ground as possible.
As an added bonus to saving a few bucks, water conservation also helps prevent pollution in other water ways. Water takes the path of least resistance which leads to rivers and lakes. Unfortunately, water can pull contaminants into its stream, so the smaller the "run off flow" the better off we are.
The best way to see if you are leaking water is to check your meter. If your going out for a day or evening of fun and your dishwasher and laundry machine are not running - jot down your reading. When you get home compare numbers (a two hour period is a good test).
If you have an indication something is going on:
- Check for a leaky faucet believe it or not small drips can waste up to 20 gallons a day
- Toilet test - take the lid off, add some food coloring to the tank, and see if it shows up in the bowl
- Check your outside spicket and hose connections
Now that you have found your leaks and made your adjustments; what else can you do to help out mother earth and keep some more of your hard earned dollars?
- Insulate your water pipes - How does this help? Insulating your pipes gets you hot water faster reducing wasted water flow while you are waiting for the "right time" to jump in. $$ also saves fuel for hot water generation
- Reduce running water when performing common tasks hand washing dishes, rinsing vegetables, and brushing teeth to name a few. Remember rinse at the beginning and end of the task at hand.
- Use dishwashers and laundry machines only when you have a full load ready to go. $$$ saves on detergent and electricity
- Make sure your faucets all have aerators, this decreases the over all water volume but increases the pressure
In general, the way we use water within the Unites States will need to change. In 1990 30 states reported having some sort of water stress within that year. In 2009 that number has risen to 45 states. The more we can preserve our water supply the less taxing it will be on our wallets and community. Let's start making a difference today! |
