5 Simple Ways to Conserve Water in Your Home

Water is one of the most abundant substances on earth, but that doesn't mean it's free or endless. Not only can practicing simple water conservation techniques help the planet out in the long run, but they can also put more money back in your pocket. Here are five water-saving techniques that you can do every day from the comfort of your home.

Repair Any Leaks or Running Toilets

Even a slightly leaking or constantly running toilet can waste up to 2 gallons of water a minute. In a month's time, that number can climb to a grand total of 6,000 gallons of water lost and an increase of about $70 to your water bill. Repairing just one seeping flapper could save you hundreds of dollars over the next few years.

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Turn off the Ice Maker

Most people don't consume 4 pounds of ice a day, which is what the average refrigerator can produce in 24 hours. Investing in refillable ice trays can help you save gallons of water per week. You also won't be spooked when the fridge drops ice into a plastic bin late at night.

Don't Overwater Your Plants, and Embrace Watering Bulbs

Knowing the exact watering needs of both your house and garden plants can be pleasantly welcoming. Buying and using watering bulbs can take the guesswork out of watering your plants while also making sure you don't overdo it.

Wash Your Clothes and Dishes in Larger Loads

When possible, do your laundry in larger loads as opposed to doing several smaller loads throughout the week. Most washing machines use the same cycle lengths and nearly 75 percent of the same amount of water in all load sizes. By simply eliminating small laundry loads for single larger loads, you can save time, money, and water in one fell swoop. Also, check that you're only running the dishwasher on a full load to maximize your home's efficiency.

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Wash up and Brush Your Teeth Without Running the Water

Leaving the tap running while cleaning your teeth and scrubbing your face is a common source of water waste in almost every household. If you were to turn off the faucet while doing either of those activities, you could save dozens of gallons of water daily. On average, brushing your teeth with the water running uses 4 gallons of water, while showering uses roughly 17. Turn the water off in between washing and rinsing can cut those numbers in half.

Water conservation, especially in the home, is a win-win situation for your wallet, our planet, and your spare time. Adopting just one of these fixes can bring about a huge change to your life that goes far beyond your home. Mother Nature and your monthly budget will thank you for your effort.