Six Things You Can Do Now To Reduce Winter Water Use
Easy Ways to Keep Water Bills Down in Cold Weather in Five Minutes or Less
Voorhees, NJ - February 16, 2006
Americans waste dozens of gallons of water every day, needlessly running up water bills and draining water resources, according to American Water, the largest water services provider in North America serving some 18 million people in 29 states and three Canadian provinces. However, the Company reports that there are easy steps to reducing water waste in the home.
"People often waste just as much water in the winter as in the warmer months," said John Young, American Water's Chief Operating Officer. "There are simple ways to ensure your home is efficiently using water; and it can be done without visiting the hardware store or calling a plumber."
American Water recommends:
When temperatures drop below zero, run a small trickle of water overnight. This keeps pipes from freezing. The extra running water uses only a fraction of the water wasted when a pipe breaks.
Check your toilet for leaks. A leaky toilet can waste as much as 100 gallons of water each day. Check for leaks by putting a few drops of food coloring in the tank, then watch for a few minutes. If the color appears in the bowl, you have a leak. Repair your toilet and you'll save water and money.
Run full loads in your dishwasher and clothes washer. When that's not possible, adjust the water level or cycle to match the size of your load.
Protect your water meter. Make sure the lid on your water meter is tightly closed, but don't disturb it. Snow cover actually helps provide additional insulation for your outdoor meter.
Drain water lines to outside faucets. Outside faucets, such as garden hose taps, can still flow in the cold, but are rarely used.
Keep a pitcher of cold tap water in the refrigerator. You'll avoid running the tap until the water is cold and save money compared to bottled water.
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Kimberly Cooper
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