8 Water Conservation Tips Every Toronto Homeowner Should Know

Water conservation today goes beyond simple actions like turning off the tap while brushing your teeth or opting for a shower instead of a bath. It also involves using appliances that are designed to consume significantly less water than older appliances. 

Modern technology has even made its way into home plumbing, allowing us to implement a variety of easy strategies to save water in our daily lives without much effort.

1. Understand water conservation

Water conservation is simply about reducing the amount of water we use inside the home, thus protecting the overall environment.

The water we use in our homes is approximately 20% of the world’s freshwater supply, and we consume about 9% of it annually. Protecting this valuable resource is essential, as it provides life and nutrition to all creatures. We must also be careful not to waste so much of it in our daily activities.

From installing low-flush toilets to placing certain plants in our gardens, there are many ways to decrease water usage, protect the environment from overwatering and soil erosion, and reduce our utility bills all at the same time.

2. Install water-saving appliances

Decades ago, we thought that the more water we used and consumed, the better our lives would be. We would be cleaner, our clothes would be brighter, and our gardens would thrive.

Today, we know that really only our bodies can benefit from this increased hydration.  We understand now that we can use less water overall and still be efficient, clean, and sparkly.

To help with such efforts, there is quite a range of water-saving appliances on the market. These include everything from toilets to showers, as well as washing machines to rain barrels for the garden.

To encourage their usage and installation, there are many rebate incentives available in order to help you make the change and upgrade your current systems.

3. Check for leaks

Any upgrades or new appliances are useful, as long as they are installed properly. Older appliances, such as toilets and garbage disposals, may still work. However, if they are so old that they have begun to degrade, then they need to be replaced.

Check for leaks, as this will let you know if something is no longer in good condition. These leaks can also be the reason your water bill is higher than normal, as leaking water can see a wastage increase and bigger bills.

Fortunately, your local plumber in Toronto can help you with getting these repairs done. While such repairs may seem costly at the time, they will save you more money in the long term than if left unattended. Combined with any rebate incentive to upgrade where possible, your bank account will thank you.

4. Turn off the water

You can often reduce your bills by simply turning off the water when not in use. For example, don’t let the taps run while you are brushing your teeth. You can also run your washing machine on shorter cycles to help reduce the amount of water consumed in your home.

These habits can take a while to form. So, while it may seem like a challenge to turn off the taps in between brushing, for example, eventually it will become second nature and easier to manage.

5. Dishwasher vs. hand-washing

Hand-washing dishes may seem like a thing of the past. Most households have dishwashers, so why waste time washing dishes by hand?

The dishwasher, though, is only a great feature if it is used appropriately. Don’t run the machine if it only has a few items in it. Even on an eco-setting, it will still use more water than you think, and result in higher wastage.

Filling the dishwasher to capacity and then running it will save water and still give the dishes a great clean. Of course, hand-washing the dishes still has its place, but for small loads or fragile glasses, you should turn the tap off between each item being cleaned.

6. Collect rainwater

Collecting rainwater in special barrels and using it for the garden seems like a no-brainer. This approach reduces stress on the main water system.

The water in our houses is filtered and has undergone special treatment to prevent us from getting sick. However, rainwater is as natural as it comes, and by using this in the garden before it hits the water treatment plants, you put essential nutrients back into the soil.

7. Use sprinklers sparingly

The hot summer sun is wonderful for outdoor activities and play, and more so when you include sprinklers and hoses for the kids.

While this is great for playtime, sprinklers should not be run constantly in the summer sun. Too much sun exposure mixed with the water can lead to burnt lawns, and negatively affect flowers and vegetables.

During the warm season, you can conserve water by only running the sprinklers at certain times and for short periods. This helps to save on water usage, as well as the plant life in your yard.

8. Avoid the pressure washer

On average, Canadians use the most water outside when it comes to cleaning paths and driveways. 

While it can be fun and satisfying to use the pressure washer, you can drastically reduce your water consumption by opting for a broom instead. Save the intense pressure wash for once or maybe twice a year. Otherwise, a simple sweep will be just as effective and thorough.

Contact Brothers Plumbing for a Plumber in Toronto

Brothers Plumbing has been servicing the plumbing needs of Toronto and the GTA for many years, and we understand the importance of water conservation. 

That’s why we offer various services to help you upgrade your plumbing. This way, you can save on water usage and get the rebates that come with switching. We can also check for leaks, drips, and problem areas that could be costing you money and wasting water without you knowing.

For an expert plumber in Toronto, call Brothers Plumbing at 647-247-2230 or contact us online and talk to the professionals about water conservation today.