How Can You Conserve Water This Summer?

Worldwide water supplies are becoming increasingly limited. Climate shifts, development, and global population growth are draining our water supplies. As a result, it is important for everyone to do their part to conserve water year-round.

Making small adjustments in your home can have a big impact on how much water you consume each year. Not only will water conversation save you money on your utility bills, but by doing your part, you can help prevent pollution in our beautiful oceans, lakes, rivers and watersheds.

Separating water conservation facts from water conservation myths can seem convoluted. Universal Plumbing and Heating is here to help clear any confusion.

Facts About Conserving Water

Myth: The earth is covered in water.

Fact: Although more than 2/3 of the earth is covered in water, less than 1 percent of that water is available for drinking. On top of this, that small percentage is plagued by overuse and pollution.

Myth: It rains a lot in Vancouver, therefore saving water is unnecessary.

Fact: Even with the heavy, seemingly endless rainfall that Vancouver receives, water, in general, is very limited. Reservoirs that collect water must be refilled. The increased frequency of droughts in other areas, combined with the ever-increasing demand for water, requires conservation throughout the entire year – not just during the summer months.

Myth: My water choices don’t make a difference.

Fact: There are many ways to conserve water that have been proven to add up to a measurable difference – even from just one person.

Water Conservation Tips

There are plenty of things you can start to do to reduce your water consumption. Some of these things you can do on your own, while others may require the assistance of a Vancouver plumber. Check out the tips below.

Checking for Leaks – A small leak from a faucet can waste upwards of 75 litres of water per day. Visually check your home for leaks on faucets and hose bibs. If you notice a leak, contact a plumber for repairs right away.

Check the Toilet – Toilets can leak without you even knowing it. To test for a leak, add food colouring into the tank and do not flush. After 30 minutes, check to see if any of the colouring has seeped into the bowl. If it does, you have a leak and you need to repair it.

Update your Shower Head – Switch to water-saving shower heads and use low-flow faucet aerators on sinks. These restrict how much water will come out of your shower heads and faucets and also reduce water consumption.

Turn Off The Water – Turn off the water when you are brushing your teeth and shaving. Also, try to reduce the length of your shower.

Water Twice a Week – Water your yard twice a week in the morning and evening. Consider using drip irrigation to save water and money.

 

Universal Plumbing and Heating can help you make the necessary repairs to conserve water and keep your home as water-efficient as possible.

Call us at 604-873-3551 to schedule a repair or contact us to learn more about water conservation tips in the Greater Vancouver Area.