How to Conserve Water and Keep Out of Financial Drought

How to Conserve Water and Keep Out of Financial Drought

By Kristine Hawkins

Many people found they can become more proactive in water conservation simply by making little adjustments in their day to day activities.

When you're living in a drought-stricken area with little water, the soil in your yard begins to crack and your plants colors change from plush to pale, making your once beautiful landscape look dull and deprived.  Even though this scenario is a poor situation to be in, there's still hope. It's time to pull your community together and use every method of water conservation available. Here are some tips that have gotten many people through those oppressive summers and still be able to save enough money for a rainy day.

They say that a huge percentage of the water we use is in the bathroom so let's begin there.

I know sitting in a tub full of sudsy hot water is relaxing especially after a long day but think of the thirsty lawn that can't experience such a luxury. For one it's expensive. The hot water heater probably heated up those many gallons for you to enjoy which will be included in your next electric or gas bill. And two, "GALLONS OF WATER" that will ultimately end up in your drain once the temperature drops to lukewarm and you've turned into a raisin. In desperate times like these a 15 min shower is suggested. 

The best way to conserve is the shower because it forces you to regulate the usage of water. 

By turning off the water as you shampoo and lather your able to kill two birds with one stone when it's time to rinse. You can also purchase low flow, water-saving shower heads. It's a piece of plumbing  that reduces the amount of water flowing through your shower by up to 50 percent, but feels the same because it increases the waters speed. You can also get similar attachments for your faucets in the kitchen as well. You end up saving on hot water also which adds to your pocket in the long run.

Did you know that when you flush your toilet up to 5 gallons of water is wasted?

Well now you do and here are some suggestions... Toilet dams are used to reduce the amount of water that flows out by 25%. They can be purchased at any hardware or plumbing supply stores. (In the event that you couldn't resist the idea of a bath you can still redeem yourself by filling up a bucket with the leftover bath water and "viola, you've flushed your guilt right through the toilet")

Water your lawn only when required.

When you step on your grass it should bounce back when you lift your foot, If it doesn't  your lawn needs water. Also set your sprinklers for more days in between watering. You will save 750-1,500 gallons per month. Better yet, especially in times of drought, water with a hose. And best of all, convert your lawn to native plants.