Water is one of the most precious natural assets, without which we could not live. Although right now it has rained widely, saving water is always a very important recommendation to help the environment.
Thus, in daily actions, a series of tips or recommendations can be followed to reduce water consumption both in the kitchen faucet and when using the sink or the shower or bathtub , as collected from the Organization of Consumers and Users (OCU).
Change the faucet
In many homes, it is necessary to change the faucet for one that is more efficient. To check if it is or not, just let the tap run for half a minute and measure the water collected. If it is more than 4 liters, the tap is wasteful and it is convenient to put a more modern one.
Don’t let the water run
It may seem logical, but there are many people who leave the water running while brushing their teeth, lathering their bodies in the shower, or scrubbing the dishes while washing up. With the simple gesture of turning off the tap, hundreds of liters can be saved.
Saving devices on the tap
If you do not want to change the faucet, you can choose to install a saving device. There are several types:
- Flow limiters: reduce the flow and save up to 50% of water.
- Aerators or aerators: These devices mix air with the water, even if the pressure is low.
- Flow switches: they can work with a presence detector or through a timer.
- Travel limiters: the usual thing in single-lever taps is that they always open completely, allowing the maximum flow output even when it is not necessary. Therefore, these devices allow you to spend less.
Efficient toilets
As with the faucets, there is the possibility of installing a toilet in the bathroom that is more efficient, in such a way that they have a double-push-button cistern, which discharges 3 liters for lesser water and 6 liters for greater water.
If you cannot or do not want to change the toilet to a more modern model, you can choose to install a double-button saving device in the cistern or, also, place a flush limiter.
Avoid using the toilet as a wastebasket
Using the toilet to dispose of wipes, paper or other waste increases the consumption of water in the home. All these items can be thrown in the bin, thus avoiding having to flush more than necessary.
Use efficient appliances
The washing machine or the dishwasher are two of the household appliances that also consume water. The most modern ones, in addition to saving on energy, also mean less water consumption. In addition, it is advisable to put the washing machine or dishwasher when they are completely full.
Reuse water
Some ideas can help save water at home by reusing it. For example, as collected by the OCU, the children’s bath water can be used to mop the floor. It is also possible to collect the water that comes out in the shower while you wait for it to get hot so that you can wash or water afterwards.
shower instead of bath
When it comes to washing up, the use of water can be reduced if instead of taking a bath you choose to shower directly. Filling the bathtub requires at least 200 liters, while a five-minute shower spends a quarter.
Using the dishwasher instead of hand scrubbing
It has also been shown that using the dishwasher saves money, whenever it is full, compared to washing the pots and pans by hand: “Washing the dishes by hand twice a day ranges from 120 liters if done by hand with the tap running.” , or 60 liters if the battery full of water is used”, indicates the OCU.
Avoid possible leaks
It is likely that at some time in the home a faucet or a cistern will remain dripping. Although it may seem like a lesser evil, this wasted water represents a significant expense, so it is advisable to be alert and avoid possible water leaks both in the taps and in the cisterns.
