Water Works

By: Anikka Wattnem

After receiving a recent utility bill we were forced to take a look around our house at the possible “culprits” in the realm of water. While we may never know exactly why our water consumption went sky high, we can at least do some things to change. Even if it doesn’t make a huge difference in our bills, these are still great green things to do.
1. Laundry - Our washer is quite old. It probably uses excessive water and electricity. Sometimes it can be hard to swallow the cost of a new appliance but their savings over time are great. Any energy star (www.energystar.gov) washer can save you up to 550 in its lifetime.
2. The shower - A new low flow shower head can save both water and electricity. If you’re really adventurous you can take so called “military showers”. This is where you shut off the water while you soap up. I did this for a month at college as part of an “eco-challenge” and can contest that it’s not as bad as it may sound! Avoid baths which use way more water
3. The Toilet - Our toilet is fairly new and doesn’t leak but here’s an easy way to check if yours does. Place a few drops of food coloring in the tank. If there is color in the bowl within 10 minutes or so then the toilet is leaking and should be replaced. Also don’t use the toilet to flush tissues, bugs, etc. Throw them in the trash instead. If you are really “hard core” you can introduce a new household rule simply stated “If it’s yellow let it mellow. If it’s brown flush it down” (you may want to make an exception if you have guests).
4. Dishes - We don’t have a dish washer and unfortunately hardly ever wash our dishes immediately after using them. We let them soak in the sink instead so that the food doesn’t get stuck on there. However this leads to us using twice the amount of water. Doing the dishes right away feels good (no more dishes piled in the sink!) and saves water.
5. If nothing else you should turn off the water running while brushing your teeth, washing your face etc. Turn it off, it saves a surprising amount!