How to Use Water Effectively

　　Enhancing Water Conservation

　　The convenience of tap water often leads to its perception as an endless resource. However, the reality is that only one percent of the world’s water is drinkable. About 97 percent is saltwater or not suitable for drinking, and the remaining two percent is frozen in polar ice caps and glaciers. The water we use today is the same water that dinosaurs consumed millions of years ago. The average American uses about 90 gallons of water per day at home, with each household consuming roughly 107,000 gallons each year. Remarkably, a significant portion, between 50-70 percent, is used for watering lawns and gardens. It’s worth mentioning that nearly 14 percent of the water paid for by homeowners is wasted due to leaks. Americans use more water than their counterparts in both developed and developing countries; for example, the average European uses 53 gallons, while the average Sub-Saharan African uses only 3-5 gallons.

　　Average Residential Water Usage (Gallons per Capita per Day):

• Bathing: 20 gpcd
• Toilet Flushing: 24 gpcd
• Lawn and Pool Watering: 25 gpcd
• Laundry: 8.5 gpcd
• Dishwasher: 4 gpcd
• Car Washing: 2.5 gpcd
• Drinking and Cooking: 2 gpcd
• Garbage Disposal: 1 gpcd

　　The average cost of water in the U.S. is 2.00 per 1,000 gallons, with the typical family spending approximately 474 annually on water and sewage. Moreover, American households incur about $230 in yearly water heating expenses. Typically, combined water and sewer bills account for only about 0.5 percent of household income. Implementing water conservation practices can lead to significant annual savings.

　　For further reading:

• Billions Face Water Shortages

　　Water conservation is crucial for protecting water resources and improving water quality. By using water-saving appliances like dishwashers and fixtures such as toilets and showerheads, substantial savings on water, sewage, and energy costs can be achieved each year. There are many ways to conserve water at home. Here are five strategies that yield the best results:

1. Fix Leaks: Unnoticed leaks can result in considerable water and financial waste. Studies show that homes can lose over 10% of their water due to leaks.
2. Install 1.6-gallon or less per flush toilets: Homes built before 1992 with unchanged toilets may not have the modern 1.6-gallon per flush water-saving models.
3. Replace old clothes washers with EPA Energy Star certified models: These washers use 35-50% less water and 50% less energy per load.
4. Choose suitable plants and irrigation: Select plants adapted to local climate conditions and avoid excessive water use in arid climates.
5. Water wisely: Ensure your irrigation system includes a rain shutoff device and is scheduled efficiently to prevent waste.

　　Increasing water costs often reflect the need to maintain aging infrastructure, comply with public health standards, and expand service areas. These higher expenses usually result in increased rates for consumers. By practicing water conservation, you can reduce household and wastewater use, leading to significant environmental benefits and decreasing the need for new water treatment and storage facilities.

　　For further reading:

• Billions Face Water Shortages