As we are entering into the cool and sometimes wet season saving water might sound like something we only need to do in the summer. Not so.
Here in Georgia we are in the third year of drought. The major reservoirs are at record low water levels and we are 10" or more behind our annual average rainfall totals. It is just as important now, in the cool weather, that we use less water as it is in the summer. If we don't, our reservoirs will start the year even lower than the did last year.
Here are three easy and low cost ways we can save water inside the home:
1) Replace old fixed shower heads with low flow hose fixtures.They can be found starting at about $10 and it only takes a few minutes to remove the old shower head and install the new one. This saves water two ways. First, the newer low flow heads give use less water while still providing adequate pressure and coverage. Second, you can remove the shower head from the holder and direct the spray at those areas that might be bit harder to rinse effectively with a fixed shower head, unless you are a more limber contortionist than I am.
2) Keep a bucket near your shower or tub. Use it to catch the first water that comes our of the faucet or shower head while you are waiting for the water to warm up. If you have replaced the fixed shower head with one on a hose you can easily direct the water into the bucket, otherwise, it could get a bit uncomfortable holding the bucket up to the shower head. When filling the tub, just place the bucket under the faucet. Use this collected water to water your indoor plants or to flush liquid waste (you know what I mean) down the toilet. We keep buckets in both full bathrooms.
3) Use a pitcher in the kitchen to catch water as you are waiting for it to heat up (for those occasions when you absolutely need warm/hot water). Use this water for watering indoor plants, etc.
Note: You can chose any color you want for the buckets and pitcher.
I like to make wooden puzzles for my grandson. I cut them out with my scrollsaw, sand and then paint them in a water based non-toxic paint. I use this collected water to wash out my paint brushes.
Contraty to popular belief, the saying "Save Water - Shower With a Friend", no matter how appealing it may sound, does not save water. Perhaps because it is too appealing. Saving our fresh water is good, not just for Georgia, but for everywhere.
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