Reduce your household water and save money too

[Joe Crawford]

Did you know that on a per capita basis, Canadians are the second
highest water consumers in the world? Although we're blessed with more
fresh, clean water than any other country on the planet, it's in our
best interest to use it wisely. And as many Canadian homeowners will
attest, reducing household water use can also lower your utility
bills.

Here are some tips to help you be both environmentally friendly and
kind to your pocketbook in the process:

Repair any leaking faucets; even a few drips add up over a whole
month
When running the tap while water heats or cools, capture the excess
water for other tasks, such as watering plants
Don't let tap water run continuously for simple tasks like brushing
your teeth and shaving. A short burst is all that's needed to rinse
clean.
Wash only full loads of laundry and wait until the dishwasher is full
before setting it to run; choose the minimum cycle necessary to do the
job
Replace your outdated bathroom fixtures with a low-flush toilet and/or
a low-flow shower
Consider growing water-efficient plants and grasses on your property
Water your lawn in the evening, when most of the moisture will be
absorbed by the grass and not evaporated away by direct sunlight
Use sprinkler timers and rain gauges to promote deep root growth and
healthier vegetation versus over-watering your lawn and garden
Collect downspout water in a rain barrel and use this for watering
indoor plants, outdoor planters and your garden
By following these simple tips, you'll be saving our precious resource
and saving money too. Want more tips on how to reduce your household
operating expenses? Contact your local Coldwell Banker ® real estate
professional and get some expert advice on getting the most out of
your property.