Saving Water Tips

Good morning Internet world! Not sure if you've all heard the unfortunate news but last week on the Detroit Free Press there was an article released about the mass water turn off that is coming in the next few weeks. Here's the article if you have not read it yet:

(Detroit Free Press - Water)

Basically, the Water Department is threatening to turn off the water for those who have not paid their bills. The crews will be targeting those who have already received shut off notices or those with bills two or more months late. We are doing our best to help people who need assistance with their water bills. We have a resource coming to you on Community Connections Thursday, but until then, we have some helpful tips for conserving water in your home. If you or anyone you know needs water assistance, please contact us at ECHO: (313)674-5077

1. Check EVERYTHING for leaks

It might seem like a small leak here or there, but his can add up on your water bill. Fix these tiny leaks and you will save on your bill.

Just so you have an idea about what we're talking about...1 drip of water per 5 seconds = 5 gallons of water per day!

2. Don't use your toilet as a garbage can

Did you know that 1 flush equals seven gallons of water? Conserve on the amount of times you flush per day and you will save money.

3. Put plastic bottles or float booster in your toilet tank

I've never heard of this one before, but it sounds like it just might help!

To cut down on water waste, put an inch or two of sand or pebbles inside each of two plastic bottles to weigh them down. Fill the bottles with water, screw the lids on, and put them in your toilet tank, safely away from the operating mechanisms. Or, buy an inexpensive tank bank or float booster. This may save ten or more gallons of water per day. 
Be sure at least 3 gallons of water remain in the tank so it will flush properly. If there is not enough water to get a proper flush, users will hold the lever down too long or do multiple flushes to get rid of waste. Two flushings at 1.4 gallons is worse than a single 2.0 gallon flush. A better suggestion would be to buy an adjustable toilet flapperthat allow for adjustment of their per flush use.  Then the user can adjust the flush rate to the minimum per flush setting that achieves a single good flush each time.

4. Take shorter showers

(You know who you are 15minute shower folks!)

5. Turn the water off after you wet your toothbrush

6. Don't leave the water running while you shave!

7. If you wash dishes by hand, don't leave the water running while rinsing

If you have a double basin sink, fill one with water for rinsing and another for washing.

8. Keep a bottle of drinking water in the fridge

Don't let the water run in the sink to get cool before you fill up your glass, keep a bottle in the fridge to save on water!

9. Soak pots and pans instead of letting the water run while you scrub them!

10.Catch the cold water in a container while you wait for it to get hot! Use the cool water for house plants or for pets!

For more water saving tips, check out this link! Water Use it Wisely!