Women at work and their tips, challenges, advice, complaints, and experiences

Are you flushing resources (natural and financial) down the drain? 

As I mentioned yesterday in the first installment on easy ways to save water, the average family in the USA uses 400 gallons of water a day - with 70% of that being for indoor use, you can imagine how much of it goes to flushing the toilet, running appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines, and leaky faucets.

Let's delve into how we can prevent those water-focused items in our homes (and offices, actually) from becoming wasteful water guzzlers!

1. Replace OLD TOILETS:  If your home was built before 1994, it's possible that you have a toilet (or several of 'em) that us more than 3.5 gallons of water per flush.  The ultra-low flush toilets on the market today can use 1.6 gallons or less.  Big diff, isn't it?  Federal mandates require new construction to use the less wasteful versions; if you're looking to save some green and some fluid, it's worth your while to retrofit your bathroom(s) with a new toilet during any remodels or repairs.  Hit the local hardware store or home improvement place - basic versions start at around a hundred bucks.
2. Fix LEAKY FAUCETS:  Even seemingly small drips can cost a bundle over time.  Sometimes it can be as simple as tightening the screw that holds your faucet handle on - making sure that the faucet is actually off.  Other times it can be a small part in the faucet itself.  Want to check for general leaks in the building?  Turn off all the fixtures and jot down the meter reading.  Wait one hour with all water off, then check again.  You shouldn't see any change in the number; if there is a change, there is a leak!  Think it's your toilet?  Try putting a few drops of food coloring in the tank and waiting 10 minutes; if the color appears in the bowl it's time for a repair.  (And depending on how pricey the repair is, you may want to replace the toilet as above!)
3. Do a FULL LOAD:  Dishwashers and washing machines offer us a huge amount of convenience, but they are a waste of time and money if you're running them half empty.  (Yes, half empty - this is not the time to be positive and say "half full"!)  Make the most of your time and utilities by running the dishwasher or washing machine when you have full loads.  Can't stand leaving a pot unwashed?  Do it by hand in the sink.  Other items can wait in the washer til you're ready.  If there are major repairs to be made on one of these appliances, consider the cost-effectiveness.  You'd probably be better off investing in a new Energy Star or WaterSense model.  These appliances are made to save you money and help conserve natural resources.  An Energy Star washing machine can use between 18 - 25 gallons per load, almost 40% less than a standard machine!

Want more ideas for saving water?  Tomorrow we'll head outdoors to help you conserve in the garage and on the lawn.