Northern California is classified as being in a "severe" drought and had its driest year on record in 2013.Cal Water has advised residents to start conserving water. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) says that drought conditions will persist in many areas of the country for the winter and quite possibly for longer than that.
Knowing this area is in a severe drought all homeowners need to do what they can to conserve water and lower their water bill. Small changes to your plumbing in Chico can make big differences in water savings, helping your water bill and the environment.
Ways Your Plumbing in Chico Can Help Save Water and Lower Your Water Bill
As less and less water becomes available to residents of the area your water usage will cost you more and more. Following are some things any homeowner can do to conserve water and lower their water bill:
1. Faucets and pipes
Water leaks may seem small but over time they waste copious amounts of water. If your plumbing in Chico has a small drip from a worn washer it can waste 20 gallons of water per day. Check faucets and pipes closely for leaks. Also install an aerator on faucets. This device will reduce water flow but not water pressure.
2. Toilets
Leaks are common in toilets. Put some food coloring in the toilet tank. If the water in the bowl starts to color within 30 minutes there is a leak in the toilet that needs to be repaired.
3. Shower heads
Install low-flow shower heads on your showers. A typical, older-type shower head may use 5.5 gallons of water per minute. Low-flow heads may only use 2.5 gallons per minute. During a 5 minute shower you can save 15 gallons of water.
4. Shorter showers
Showering generally feels great, especially after a hard day at work or some strenuous exercise. Make it a point not to take too long in the shower. Shoot for 5 minutes but if you can't do that just try to shorten the length of your showers as much as possible.
5. Water pipe insulation
Check to see what kind of insulation your plumbing in Chico has. Insulating water pipes will get you hot water faster plus you won't have to waste water while you wait for water to heat up.
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6. Dishwasher and clothes dryer
Wash only full loads of clothes and dishes. If either of these units is older and not Energy Star rated consider buying a newer model that is. The appliance will generally pay for itself in a relatively short amount of time.
7. Plants and shrubs
Plant water-saving and drought tolerant plants in your yard and garden. Consider grasses that don't need plenty of water to look good.
8. Mulch
Put a layer of mulch around trees, shrubs and other plants. This will slow evaporation and conserve water.
9. Watering
Water your yard and garden only when needed. Don't let automatic watering systems run after a rain. Letting your grass grow a little taller will also cut down the need for watering. If you do have to water give your yard and garden a deep watering. Plant’s roots will grow deeper helping conserve water.
10. Driveways and patios
When cleaning these areas sweep them with a broom. Don't wash them off with a hose.
When it Comes to Your Plumbing in Chico Do Your Part to Save Water and Money
Water is a precious commodity and as time goes on it seems to get more and more precious. With the Chico area in the middle of a severe drought do your part to conserve water and lower your water bill. Using more water will only cost you more. Be careful, practical and save. For help with upgrading faucets, leaky pipes, shower heads and more contact a Chico plumber at Experts In Your Home today.
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