A new year is in full swing; meaning, it’s a great time to think about water conservation. True, California is getting record rainfall this winter, but that doesn’t mean saving water in 2023 shouldn’t be a priority. Water is always a precious resource in the Golden State, so our Orcutt plumbers have come up with a list of ways that you can do your part.
1. Upgrade to Ecofriendly
This one is a no-brainer that saves water year-round. Low-flow toilets, faucets and shower heads are a great way to conserve water. Toilets alone account for 30 percent of a home’s water usage, according to the EPA, so switching to low flow can be a big saver.
Add in energy-efficient appliances like a dishwasher, washing machine and water heater, and your house will be a water-saving machine.
2. Shorten Your Shower
Just because you’ve switched to a high-efficiency showerhead, doesn’t mean you should be in there for an unlimited amount of time. Long, hot showers may be relaxing, but they still do a number on your water usage.
Shortening your normal shower time by just two minutes can save five gallons of water.
3. Fix Your Leaks
A drippy faucet can waste more water than you think. A faucet that drips at a rate of one drip per second can waste more than 3,000 gallons per year, according to the EPA, which equates to more than 180 showers! That’s a lot of water wasted; plus, think of the savings on your bill.
4. Rethink Your Yard
A grass lawn in California is a thing of the past. Keeping your yard green in the summer is a big-time waste of water. Switching to native, drought-resistant landscaping is not only environmentally sound, but it also provides a habitat for birds and insects that keep the overall ecosystem healthier.
Check out the Cal Poly plant shop for ideas or just head down to the local Home Depot, which carries plenty of drought-resistant options in their nursery department.
5. Make Water-saving Decisions
Even if you have low-flow everything, have fixed all your leaks and take quick showers, other everyday decisions can go a long way toward conserving water.
Wash your produce in a bowl and use the water for plants, don’t let the tap run while shaving or brushing your teeth and only run the dishwasher and washing machine when they’re full are just a few things to keep in mind this year.
For more water-saving tips or to help upgrade your plumbing to conserve year-round, our professional Orcutt plumbers are a call or click away. Contact us online or simply by calling
