Water is precious, and in Amarillo, we know this better than most. Our hot summers and dry climate mean water doesn’t come easy, and wasting it isn’t just bad for the environment, it’s bad for our wallets too. The good news is you don’t have to make big sacrifices to save water. A few small changes can make a huge difference.
At Plumbing Amarillo TX, we’ve seen firsthand how small plumbing fixes and smart water habits can save homeowners gallons of water (and plenty of cash) every month. Let’s talk about easy, practical ways to conserve water
Fix Those Leaks Before They Drain Your Wallet
A dripping faucet might not seem like a big deal, but over time, those little drops add up to gallons of wasted water. Even worse, hidden leaks in your plumbing can drain both water and money. Here’s what you can do:
- Check for leaks regularly. Look under sinks, around toilets, and even outside near hoses and sprinkler systems.
- Listen for running water when no one is using it. A constantly running toilet is a common problem that can waste hundreds of gallons a day.
- Test your toilet for leaks by adding a few drops of food coloring to the tank. If the color shows up in the bowl without flushing, you’ve got a leak.
If you find a leak and aren’t sure how to fix it, don’t wait, call a plumber before it turns into a bigger problem.
Upgrade to Water-Saving Fixtures
Some people hear “low-flow” and think it means “low-pressure.” But modern water-saving fixtures are designed to reduce waste without making your shower feel weak. Consider these upgrades:
- Low-flow showerheads can cut water use by up to 50% while still giving you a strong shower.
- Dual-flush toilets let you use less water for liquid waste and more for solid waste.
- Faucet aerators mix air into the water stream, reducing flow while maintaining good pressure.
These small upgrades can lower your water bill without changing your daily routine.
Turn Off the Tap When You’re Not Using It
We’ve all been guilty of letting the water run while brushing our teeth or washing dishes. But this simple habit wastes gallons every day. Here’s an easy fix:
- When brushing your teeth, turn off the tap until you need to rinse.
- When shaving, fill the sink with a little water instead of running the faucet.
- When washing dishes, use a basin to rinse instead of keeping the water running.
These small changes might not seem like much, but over time, they add up to big savings.
More Reading:
- Things Every Amarillo Homeowner Should Check Once a Year
- How Tree Roots Can Damage Your Pipes in Amarillo?
Be Smart About Lawn Care
Keeping a green lawn in Amarillo isn’t easy, but there are ways to do it without using a ton of water. Here’s how:
- Water early in the morning or late in the evening to prevent evaporation.
- Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation instead of sprinklers, so water goes straight to the roots.
- Water deeply but less often to encourage strong root growth.
- Consider native or drought-resistant plants that need less water to thrive.
If you’re tired of high water bills, you might even think about swapping some grass for rocks or mulch. It looks good and saves water at the same time.
Make the Most of Your Dishwasher and Washing Machine
Your dishwasher and washing machine are two of the biggest water users in your home, but they don’t have to be wasteful. Follow these simple tips:
- Only run full loads. Half-empty cycles waste water and energy.
- Use the eco-setting if your appliance has one.
- Upgrade to water-efficient models when it’s time for a replacement.
Newer dishwashers and washing machines use much less water while still getting things clean. If yours is over 10 years old, upgrading might save you money in the long run.
Reuse Water When Possible
Not all water has to go straight down the drain. There are plenty of ways to get more use out of it. Try these ideas:
- Collect rainwater in a bucket for watering plants.
- Reuse cooking water from boiling pasta or vegetables (let it cool first) to water plants.
- Save leftover drinking water instead of dumping it.
Keep an Eye on Your Water Bill
One of the easiest ways to spot a hidden leak is by keeping an eye on your water bill. If your usage suddenly jumps for no clear reason, you might have a leak somewhere in your plumbing.
Check your bill each month and look for changes. If something seems off, it’s worth having a plumber inspect your system.
Consider a Professional Water Audit
If you really want to maximize your water savings, a professional plumber can do a water audit of your home. They’ll check for leaks, test your water pressure, and recommend ways to cut back on usage. Sometimes, small adjustments, like fixing a toilet flapper or adjusting water pressure can make a huge difference.
Wrapping Up
Saving water in Amarillo isn’t just about lowering your bill, it’s about keeping our local water supply in good shape for the future. By making small changes, you can:
✅ Lower your water bill
✅ Reduce strain on the local water supply
✅ Help the environment
And if you ever need help fixing leaks, upgrading fixtures, or making your home more water-efficient, Plumbing Amarillo TX is here to help. Contact us today, and let’s make sure every drop counts.
Attribution: Cover Image by FreePik
More Reading:
- Easy Ways to Improve Water Quality in Your Amarillo Home
- Why Some Amarillo Homes Have Rusty Water And How to Fix It?