7 Easy Ways to Lower Your Water Bill

It is no secret that all of the summer fun can raise the bottom line on your monthly bills. As demand rises, you might also see water costs rise in your area. So how can you cut down your water bills? The Raleigh plumbers at Newcomb and Company are here with a look at 7 easy ways you can lower your water bill.

Tip 1: Check for Leaks

Plumbing leaks are more than a waste of water and money—they also put your home at risk for water damage and mold. Leaks can occur in:

• Pipes within your home and behind your walls
• Plumbing fixtures (such as toilets, showers, sinks)
• Appliances (dishwashers, laundry machines)
• Sprinkler/pool systems

You can keep an eye out for these 8 signs your home has a plumbing leak. By having a professional plumber detect and repair leaks in your home, you can lower your water bill while protecting your home.

Tip 2: Upgrade to Efficient Showerheads, Toilets, and Sinks

Efficiency is the key to saving water and lowering your bills. Low-flow water fixtures have gotten an unfair reputation for working less effectively than standard installations. However, new water conservation technology can provide a more comfortable bathroom experience without all of the water waste. You can also find efficient toilets, faucets, and sinks that provide the same standard plumbing experience while saving you money.

Tip 3: Fix Running Toilets

Is your toilet running? This is an unfortunately common issue that leads to consistent water waste. There are a few easy ways to tell if your toilet is flushing money down the drain:

• Unusual toilet noise: We all know the sound that a toilet makes as it refills with water. Why is your toilet making these sounds when not in use? Chances are, your toilet is refilling from the running water waste.
• Running toilet ink test: To check for a running toilet, consider dropping a few drops of food coloring into your toilet tank. If the ink leaks into your toilet bowl without being flushed, you have a running toilet.
• High water bills: High water bills often indicate water waste somewhere in your home. This issue can signify a running toilet.

Thankfully, running toilets often simply require a plumber to install a new flapper, seal, or another toilet component. Your local plumbing expert will find and detect the issue with your toilet to help you lower your water bills.

Tip 4: Make Your Appliances Work For You

Here is a water conservation fact you will like: research shows that running the dishwasher uses significantly less water than washing by hand. You can save water by using your dishwasher regularly, waiting until it’s full before running, and avoiding pre-washing/pre-rinsing.

Waiting until the washing machine is full can also help you save water during your laundry routines—with the added benefit of fewer loads to manage. Additionally, upgrading to new water-efficient appliances can help you save money while achieving cleaner results.

Tip 5: Upgrade Your Hot Water Heater

Every moment you spend waiting for your water to get hit sends clean water (and money) down the drain. Unfortunately, water heaters that are on the brink of failure will take longer to work properly. They also consume more energy heating and maintaining your home’s warm water supply—raising both your water bill and energy bills.

Thankfully, this issue comes with a simple solution: a water heater upgrade. By installing a new water heater, you can reap the water, energy, and money savings of newer units. Best of all, you can have a comfortable shower and the peace of mind that your home is safe from a failing water heater.

Tip 6: Smart Water-Saving Routines

We often forget that our little habits can have a big impact over time. By making small adjustments to your everyday routines, you can help lower your water bill and protect the environment. Here are some easy switches you can make:

• Turn Off the Tap: If you are like many homeowners, you likely leave the water running while brushing your teeth. By turning off your tap during this routine, you can save 8 gallons of water every day, 200 a month, and 2,400 a year—according to the EPA.
• Less shower waste: To save water, try to limit extra shower time and keep bath levels lower when possible.
• Full sink: Rather than running the water continuously while shaving or washing your face, consider filling up the sink or turning on the water intermittently.

While it might not sound like much, these and other small steps can lead to substantial savings over time.

Tip 7: Lawn and Outdoor Water Conservation

While we are often attuned to our indoor routines, outdoor water usage can have an even greater impact. Here are some water conservation tips for your outdoors:

• Lawn Length: Leaving your grass standing a little taller can help you save money on your water bill. The shade from the grass prevents evaporation, meaning less watering, less money, and healthier landscapes. So skip a day of mowing or raise the blade to leave length on your lawn.
• Pool Covers: Pool water tends to evaporate in the heat. You might not notice this evaporation, as your pool will automatically refill the water once the levels lower. However, you can help save water by covering your pool when it is not in use to prevent unnecessary evaporation.
• Hard Water: While hard water is not safe for drinking, it is safe for your greenery. Consider using hard water (such as the water from your laundry or bath) to water your lawn.
• Rain Water: Collecting rainwater is a free, easy, and environmentally-friendly way to keep your lawn green!

Newcomb and Company Plumbing in Raleigh

When you need a local Raleigh plumber, the experts at Newcomb and Company are here for you. Our experts will provide all of the services you need to cut your water bills and eliminate unnecessary waste. You can even contact our emergency plumbers for 24-hour emergency services. We proudly serve the greater Raleigh area, including nearby cities like Knightdale, Clayton, Garner, Cary, and beyond. Make your appointment with our local plumbers today to get started!