Take three steps to save on water use
Dear Ed: We are first-time homeowners. Our home was built in the 1980s and has the original plumbing. While our budget is limited, we want to save some water. Where do we start and how do you recommend we keep costs down?
Fred and Jill, Ohio Home water conservation not only protects a valuable resource, it can also lower your water and sewerage costs. I always say that saving water can be as easy as one, two, three.
First, start with your faucets. This can be the easiest and the least expensive upgrade. At the end of the faucet spout is a control called the aerator. In most cases, existing aerators can be replaced with new water-saving aerators.
Next, change out the older showerhead with a high efficiency model.
Look for replacement shower heads that use less than seven litres per minute.
Finally, replacing older toilets with new efficient toilets that use less than five litres per flush can add to your water savings.
Since toilet replacements can be pricey, you may want to complete your faucet and shower head upgrades first and save the toilet for the end.
Master contractor and plumber Ed Del Grande is author of Ed Del Grande’s House Call, the host of TV and Internet shows, and a LEED green associate. Visit eddelgrande.com or write to eadelg@cs.com. Always consult local contractors and codes.