If you want to do more to conserve water, you’re not alone. Currently, many individuals are concerned about ensuring future generations have access to clean drinking water – and for a valid reason. Globally, fresh drinking water is surprisingly low – only around 3% of all the water on Earth is freshwater, and of that, 2.5% is locked in ice caps, the atmosphere, or deep underground. That gives only 0.5% available for drinking. Water conservation is a significant part of being a conscientious citizen of the world. And luckily, there are many easy things that you can do to conserve water each day, even if you rent your Northridge home. Here are some tips to get you started.
Turn Off the Taps
One of the easiest approaches to conserve water is to reduce how much water goes down the drain. For example, you can save a lot of water by just turning off the faucet while brushing your teeth, soaping up in the shower, or washing dishes. By consuming only as much water as you need, you can save hundreds of gallons of water each year.
Run Your Dishwasher
While it may sound illegitimate, washing dishes by hand uses a lot more water than utilizing your dishwasher. This is particularly valid if you have a water-conserving dishwasher model. As per some estimates, you can cut your water consumption in half and save almost 5,000 gallons of water a year just by using an efficient dishwasher to wash your dishes.
Wash Full Loads
You can save water by utilizing your washing machine a bit more strategically when it comes to laundry. For instance, only do laundry when you have enough to do a full load. This saves both water and energy. Otherwise, if your budget permits, buy a high-efficiency washing machine that will automatically adjust water levels to the amount of laundry in each load.
Opt for Water-Saving Fixtures
Another good idea to conserve water is to put money into water-saving fixtures, specifically showerheads and sink faucets. Low-flow showerheads can save anywhere from five to ten gallons per minute, which adds up in the long run! Plus, if your bathroom faucets don’t already have one, begin installing an aerator. This will help maintain water pressure while reducing the water you utilize every time you turn on the tap. Just be sure to seek your landlord’s approval, if necessary, before making any permanent plumbing adjustments.
Keep Cooled Water in the Fridge
As an alternative to letting the tap water run until it’s cold enough to drink, try keeping a jug or pitcher of water in your refrigerator instead. This can help prevent wasted water and give you easy access to that cold drink of water you’re craving.
Check for Leaks
If it’s been a while since you or your landlord has inspected your home’s plumbing for leaks, that is something to include on your to-do list. Plumbing leaks, even minor leaks, can waste a large quantity of water. They also cause water damage in hidden places that can eventually lead to big repair problems. You can do a visual check around faucets, toilets, and under sink cabinets. But to be completely confident that you don’t have a hidden leak somewhere, encourage your landlord to hire a plumbing professional for a full inspection. In the end, being proactive with plumbing maintenance will save both water and money!
Doing small steps like these is an excellent way to conserve water. However, if you’re looking for a Northridge rental home that was built with water conservation in mind, take a look at our current listings or give Real Property Management West San Fernando Valley a call!
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
