I’m proud to say that I have become the “go-to” emergency plumber in my area.
Not to brag, however, I can proudly say that I have extensive experience in helping Perth businesses and homeowners with their plumbing-related issues.
While I am always available to keep the plumbing of my clients in good shape, I also want to educate them on sustainable practices, so they can save money on repair expenses while also helping the environment.
So, here are some helpful tips.
- Quickly Fix Leaks
Don’t just ignore leaks, even if they are small. Over time, this can accumulate and can significantly drive up your water bill.
Even a single drip on your tap can accumulate to 20,000 of litres of water in a year! So, just imagine how much water you are wasting if you leave leaks unfixed!
Make it a point to regularly inspect your taps and pipes. The moment you notice a leak, make sure to get it fixed.
- Install Water-Saving Fixtures
Consider investing in fixtures that can help you save water. Examples are dual-flush toilets, low-flow shower heads, and others. These things are certainly a game-changer when it comes to reducing water use at home.
By installing water-saving fixtures, you can lower your water bill by up to fifty percent! That can certainly help you save a good amount of money.
Look for products that are labelled “WaterSense”. Discuss with a plumber on what would be the best water-saving fixtures for your home.
- Go Tankless
Those traditional water heaters you have at home tend to heat a huge tank of water at all times even when not in use. It’s such a big waste of water and electricity.
Consider upgrading to tankless varieties – they will only heat the water you’ll use. Therefore, they won’t use up plenty of resources. And best of all – they tend to last longer than the older models.
Sure, you will be paying more for these, but you’ll save significantly in the long run.
- Make it a Habit to Clean your Water Heater Tank
If you have traditional water heaters at home, make sure to annually flush the tank. Doing so removes buildup of sediments. For if they accumulate, your water heater will be less efficient and may need to work harder and use more energy.
The good news? You can totally do this yourself! All it takes is attaching a hose to the drain—super simple. But if you’d rather skip the hassle, no worries—a pro can handle it for you.
- Use Eco-friendly Drain Cleaners
Most drain cleaners are loaded with harsh chemicals that can damage your pipes, not to mention harm the environment. A better option? Eco-friendly cleaners! These products use natural enzymes and no harsh substances in them. Or better yet, use household items like baking soda and vinegar. They can help break down clogs.
In addition, these products won’t cause harm on your plumbing system. If you encounter minor clogs, a baking soda and vinegar mixture will do. But for tougher blocks, use a cleaner that’s enzyme based. It’s biodegradable and safe for your pipes.
- Attach Aerators on your Taps
Want to save water without sacrificing water pressure? Try installing a faucet aerator! This simple, budget-friendly upgrade adds air to your water flow, cutting down on water usage without making your faucets feel weaker.
Aerators still allow you to enjoy a strong and consistent flow from your faucet, yet it cuts as much as fifty percent on your water consumption. It’s an easy and stress-free way of saving water.
- Consider Greywater Recycling
Think about giving the water from your sink, showers and washing machine second life. You could be better off using it for irrigation for your garden or another use unrelated to drinking than throwing it down the toilet. And by doing this, you will be greatly conserving some priceless resources.
One can accomplish this in plenty of ways. Easy do-it-yourself arrangements like filling a bucket with water are available. Alternatively make investments in greywater filtration equipment. See a qualified plumber if you would want further information about this.
- Insulate Your Pipes
There are many benefits that come with getting your pipes insulated. One of these is minimising the loss of heat so your water heater won’t to work as hard to heat water.
With proper pipe insulation, you’ll be saving not only water but electricity as well!
An easy and cheap way to do this is to use a foam pipe insulation. Start with pipes that are connected directly to your water heater or those that are in exposed areas where they could lose the most heat.
- Make it a Habit to Save Water
As the secret to long-term savings is adaptation of sustainable activities, encourage all those living with you in this regard.
Develop little habits such cutting short showers, turning off the tap when brushing teeth, and running the dishwasher or washing machine just full loads. Though little now, over time these can have a significant impact.
To make everyone remember to save water, set little goals or employ reminders. Track water consumption as a family task to see out how much you might save together.
- Schedule Regular Maintenance of your Plumbing System
Save yourself from costly repairs by conducting regular checkup of your plumbing system. Doing so also allows you to save water since your plumbing works efficiently. Not only that but it also lengthens the life of your home appliances and fixtures.
Remember that sustainable plumbing is about proper maintenance that will let them last longer. Besides reducing water waste, you also avoid those unexpected repairs that can really cost a lot of money.
Talk to a professional plumber to schedule regular inspection. This is especially necessary if you notice that the pressure of your water is lower than usual. The plumber should be able to identify any inefficiencies in your plumbing system and can recommend the most sustainable options.
I’ll sign-off right now.
Remember – maintenance of sustainable plumbing requires little work.
Start with some careful adjustments.
Following these guidelines will help you to reduce your water expenses while caring for the environment.
Little actions, when taken together, will help to create a better planet and more sustainable future.