Owning a home is expensive. In addition to your mortgage, insurance and taxes, you must constantly maintain your home to preserve its value. Utility costs can rack up big bills, too. But when it comes to your water bill, there are many simple things you can do that result in big savings.

Fix leaks

Dripping faucets can waste more than 3,000 gallons per year, a showerhead leaking 10 drips per minute about 500 gallons per year, and running toilets 200 gallons or more each day. Many times, fixing leaks can be done yourself at little to no cost.

• Both faucets and showerhead connections can be tightened or sealed.
• For leaky toilets, the rubber flapper inside the tank is often the culprit. Over time, the flapper decays, but replacing it only costs a few dollars.
• Irrigation systems and outdoor spigots can also have leaks. A contractor who is certified in water-efficient irrigation technologies and techniques can ensure your irrigation system works properly.
• Only use your dishwasher and clothes washer when you have a full load. Washing smaller loads of laundry can use twice as much water per pound of laundry.
• When you wash dishes, don’t let the water run to rinse them. Fill a second sink with clear water for rinsing. Don’t rinse dishes before loading in the dishwasher.

Replace older fixtures and appliances

Older Plumbing Fixtures and appliances can be real guzzlers and waste a lot of water.

• You can save water by replacing old plumbing fixtures with WaterSense-labeled models. All products that bear the WaterSense label are tested and certified by an approved third- party laboratory to ensure they meet EPA criteria. WaterSense labels toilets, faucets, and showerheads that use at least 20 percent less water and are independently tested and certified to perform as well as or better than standard plumbing fixtures.
• When buying a new washing machine, look for the WaterSense and Energy Star seals — these appliances use 35-50 percent less water and 50 percent less energy per load than older models. In addition, a front-loading washer uses substantially less water than a top-loading model.

Turn off the tap

In general, any time water is running, you are wasting it. Try turning off the tap after wetting your toothbrush or while you are shaving and turn it on again to rinse.

If you need assistance in finding a leak or you don’t feel comfortable making your own repairs, a licensed local plumber can help.Howell Services provides reliable, quality Plumbing services to residences and small businesses throughout the Fort Bend area.  Right now, we’re offering 50% off a winter plumbing inspection! Call Howell Services today to schedule your inspection or repair.

We are proud to stand behind our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee — if you are not completely satisfied with the work we have performed, we will come back and repair it for free.

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