A Plumber’s Guide to Saving Water

As a homeowner, you know how expensive water utilities can be in Rochester and upstate NY. According to Numbeo, the average cost of utilities for a household in Rochester is $144.34 per month. That can really add up over the year! Luckily, there are steps you can take to reduce and reuse your water to help save on utility bills and the environmental impact of water usage.
Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Rochester has compiled a guide to saving water. By implementing these simple yet effective tips, you can save money on your water bill and help protect the environment. No one knows water and plumbing quite like Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Rochester! Contact us today for more information on saving on water bills!

Upgrade or Repair Appliances & Fixtures

Install Water-Saving Plumbing Fixtures

If you have an older home, you probably have older inefficient plumbing fixtures. When it comes time to upgrade, consider investing in low-flow sink faucets, showerheads, and toilets marked with an Energy Star logo or seal. A low-flow sink faucet could save you 700 gallons of water per year! According to the Appliance and Equipment Efficiency Standards, by June 26, 2023, there will be limits on the sale and repair of plumbing fixtures that exceed certain flow rates so you may need to upgrade anyway!

Insulate & Repair Your Water Heater

Living through Rochester, NY winters can really break the bank when it comes to energy and water utilities. You can take steps to minimize your utility bills starting with insulating your water heater. An insulated water heater can help you save time and money heating your water. If you notice leaks in your water heater, don’t delay! Not only is this unsafe but it could be eating away at your water utilities. Contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Rochester for water heater repair and replacement services.

Be a Responsible Pool Owner

If you have a pool, your utilities are already higher than the average home without a pool. However, you can take steps to reduce your water usage in your pool. When it’s time to open up your pool for the summer, check for standing water around the pool, cracks, and tears in the pool liner. Getting those things repaired as soon as possible will prevent water loss and damage to your home and pool. Keeping your pool covered when not in use can also help with heating costs!

Adopt Water-Saving Habits

Use Your Faucet Efficiently

According to the New York State DEC, the average person uses 10.9 gallons of water from the faucet a day. That’s a staggering amount of water that can easily be reduced with the proper faucet etiquette. You can save money on water bills by turning off the faucet while you brush your teeth, shave, and wash your hands. Those few seconds where you don’t necessarily need the water running could be costing you in the long run!

Run Your Appliances Sparingly

Wait to run your dishwasher and washing machine until they are full! Running appliances at half capacity is wasteful and inefficient in the long run. Energy-star-rated appliances run most efficiently when they are fully loaded! Also, consider washing your clothes in cold water instead of hot water to maintain brighter colors and save on utility bills.

Reuse Water!

Put the hose down! You can collect rainwater to use for watering your lawn and garden in a rain barrel placed under your gutter spout. You can use this idea inside the home too. While waiting for your water to heat up, place a pot below to catch the running water and reuse it for your garden.

Consult a Plumber

Always make sure to speak with your plumber before performing major plumbing replacements yourself! It’s best to leave the plumbing to the professionals. Additionally, they can inspect your home to identify areas for improvement that can assist you in reducing your water bills.