How to Save Water and Money in the Fall

As the fall season settles in, homeowners across Essex County, MA, and surrounding areas begin preparing for cooler weather and the upcoming winter months. While you’re busy cleaning the gutters and checking your heating system, don’t overlook your plumbing. Fall is the perfect time to assess your plumbing and implement a few water-saving strategies that can save you money throughout the colder months and beyond. Here, Maffei Services’ plumbing pros discuss some simple but effective plumbing tips to help you conserve water and reduce your utility bills this fall.

1. Fix Leaks Before They Get Worse

Leaky faucets, running toilets, and dripping showerheads might seem like small issues, but they can add up to significant water waste over time. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a single drip per second from a leaky faucet can waste over 3,000 gallons of water a year. If you live in Essex County, MA, or surrounding areas, you’re probably already starting to turn on your heating system for cooler weather, which means you’ll want to avoid wasting precious water that could be adding extra costs to your utility bill.

What to Do:

  • Check Faucets and Showerheads: Inspect all faucets, showerheads, and hose bibs for leaks. Even small drips can add up over time. Tighten loose connections or replace old washers to stop leaks.
  • Inspect Toilets: Toilets are notorious for wasting water when they run continuously. Check your toilet for signs of leaks by adding food coloring to the tank. Wait for about 30 minutes, and if the color appears in the bowl without flushing, you have a leak that needs to be addressed.

Why It Helps: Fixing leaks early will not only save water but also lower your water bill. It’s an easy task that can have a big impact on your home’s water usage and efficiency.

2. Install Low-Flow Fixtures

One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to save water (and money) in the fall is by upgrading to low-flow plumbing fixtures. These fixtures use less water without sacrificing performance, making them an excellent choice for eco-conscious homeowners in the North Shore and Merrimack Valley areas. Low-flow fixtures are especially useful as we head into the fall months when water usage often increases due to activities like washing dishes and using the shower more frequently as the weather cools down.

What to Do:

  • Low-Flow Showerheads: Install a low-flow showerhead that restricts water flow but still delivers a satisfying shower experience. These fixtures can reduce your shower water usage by up to 50%, saving both water and energy (as less hot water is used).
  • Low-Flow Faucets: Replace old kitchen and bathroom faucets with low-flow models. These faucets typically use 1.5-2.2 gallons of water per minute (gpm), compared to older faucets that use up to 5 gpm.
  • Efficient Toilets: Consider upgrading to a high-efficiency toilet (HET) or a dual-flush model. These toilets use less water per flush, saving you hundreds of gallons of water every year.

Why It Helps: Low-flow fixtures provide immediate savings by reducing your water consumption, which in turn lowers your water and energy bills. Installing these fixtures is a small investment that can provide big long-term returns, especially in areas like Essex County, where water usage can spike as the season changes.

3. Check for Plumbing Issues That Could Waste Water

In addition to fixing leaks and upgrading fixtures, it’s important to regularly check for other plumbing issues that could be wasting water. Old, worn-out pipes, inefficient water heaters, and clogged drains can all contribute to unnecessary water loss or poor system performance.

What to Do:

  • Inspect Your Water Heater: Your water heater works harder in the fall as temperatures drop, so it’s important to ensure it’s running efficiently. Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment buildup that can affect heating performance. Consider upgrading to an energy-efficient model if your current one is outdated or not functioning well.
  • Look for Leaks in Underground Pipes: Sometimes leaks happen in places you can’t easily see, like underground pipes or in the walls. If you notice an unusual increase in your water bill or wet spots on the floor, you may have a hidden leak that needs professional inspection.
  • Maintain Your Plumbing System: Have your plumbing system inspected by a professional plumber, especially if you live in an older home. Aging pipes may be more prone to leaks, which can waste water and cause more damage over time.

Why It Helps: By addressing plumbing issues before they worsen, you can avoid wasting water and prevent expensive repairs. Proactively maintaining your plumbing ensures your system runs smoothly throughout the fall and winter, saving both water and money.

4. Be Mindful of Your Fall Water Usage Habits

Fall is a time when many homeowners start preparing for the upcoming holidays, and water usage can increase. Between washing dishes after big meals, running the dishwasher, and taking longer showers as the weather cools, it’s easy to use more water than you realize. However, being mindful of how and when you use water can make a significant impact.

What to Do:

  • Use Full Loads for Laundry and Dishes: Run your washing machine and dishwasher only with full loads. This maximizes the efficiency of each use and prevents unnecessary water consumption.
  • Shorten Shower Time: While it may not be easy, shortening your showers by a few minutes can save gallons of water each day. Consider setting a timer to keep yourself on track.
  • Turn Off Water When Not in Use: When brushing your teeth, washing dishes, or scrubbing vegetables, turn off the tap when you don’t need water flowing. It’s a simple habit that saves gallons each day.

Why It Helps: Being conscious of your daily water usage habits not only conserves water but also helps reduce your utility bills over time. The fall season is a great opportunity to reassess your water habits and ensure you’re using water as efficiently as possible.

5. Schedule a Plumbing Inspection Before Winter

With colder temperatures approaching, it’s wise to schedule a professional plumbing inspection before the season changes. A plumbing inspection will help you identify any potential issues that could waste water, such as leaks, inefficient systems, or worn-out fixtures. This proactive approach will ensure that your plumbing is ready for the colder months and reduce the chances of needing emergency repairs during winter.

Why It Helps: By having a professional plumber like the ones at Maffei Services inspect your plumbing system before winter, you can address any issues early. This prevents problems from escalating and ensures that your home stays water-efficient, saving you money on unexpected repairs.

Have Your Plumbing Concerns Addressed By Maffei Services

If you live in Essex County, MA, or surrounding areas, Maffei Services is here to help with any plumbing concerns you may have. Whether you need a plumbing inspection, fixture installation, or repairs, we’re ready to ensure your home is as water-efficient as possible this fall. Contact us today to learn more and schedule your plumbing check-up!

  • Categories

  • Recent Posts

  • Schedule Service

    Name
  • Related Articles