In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the impact that we, as a society, have on the environment. With our modern ways of living, we produce large amounts of waste, which can significantly impact our environment.
As a result, many people are taking steps to reduce their footprint by changing their daily habits and behaviors.
Plumbing systems are known to have an impact on the environment. Many times, unknowingly, things that aren’t supposed to be poured down the drain wreak havoc on the water systems.
In Missoula, we care about our surrounding environment, namely our rivers and wildlife. To support our ecosystems, we’ve compiled a list of eco-friendly plumbing tips to keep our rivers clean and safe for everyone.
How do I reduce my environmental footprint?
There are several things we can do to help to protect our environment and ensure that future generations have access to clean air, water and resources. Some things include:
- Reducing energy usage
- Recycling
- Composting
- Using eco-friendly products
- Driving electric vehicles
- Avoiding single-use plastics
- Purchasing goods in eco-friendly packaging
- Using solar/wind energy
While these are fantastic options, it’s important to remember that our water use also has a massive impact on our environment. Water conservation is a crucial part of being environmentally conscious, as water is one of our most precious resources, and in many parts of the world is becoming increasingly scarce.
The smallest changes in our everyday life can cause big changes in the world around us. For example, taking shorter showers and turning off the tap while brushing your teeth are simple ways to help reduce your water usage.
Additionally, upgrading your plumbing to ensure you are using eco-friendly plumbing can prove very helpful in reducing water usage as well as saving you money. By changing our plumbing systems, we can reduce our water usage, and help protect our planet.
How to make your plumbing more eco-friendly
If you live in Missoula, there are several ways that you can adopt eco-friendly plumbing systems into your home. Here’s a list of ways you can reduce your water usage and make your home more environmentally conscious:
Low-flow shower heads
Low-flow shower heads work by reducing the amount of water that flows through the shower head while maintaining a consistent water pressure, saving water and energy.
There are two basic types of these showerheads. The aerating type mixes air into the water, while laminar flow showerheads create individual streams of water.
By installing a low-flow shower head in your home, you can reduce your water usage in the shower by up to 40%!
Fixing leaks
Plumbing leaks can add up to a large amount of water a month or year. This increases your bill and wastes a lot of precious water.
If you notice any leaks in your plumbing, give Plumb-Tech a call. We’ll be happy to help you fix your system, and take steps towards more eco-friendly plumbing.
Water efficient toilets
Most modern toilets have two flushing options, one for liquid waste which uses less water per flush, and one for solid waste, using more water per flush.
This can save up to 13,000 gallons of water in your home every year, reducing water consumption between 20% to 60%. If you have an older home, consider upgrading your toilets to save water and money.
Greywater systems
A greywater system recycles used water from your shower, washing machine, and sinks so you can use it to water your garden.
Greywater systems can reduce water consumption by as much as 40% per household. If you have a garden or a lawn you water often and you’re interested in finding out more about this, contact us today.
Eco-friendly materials
Using eco-friendly plumbing pipes in your plumbing systems is a great way to help the environment. Materials such as PVC pipes require less energy and fewer resources to manufacture and produce far less waste than other materials.
Use a dishwasher
Here’s an eco-friendly plumbing tip you probably weren’t expecting. Dishwashers save lots of time and energy scrubbing dishes every day, but did you know they are also great for reducing water usage?
A dishwasher can save up to 100 gallons of water per week when used daily. If you already use your dishwasher regularly, and still wash dishes, try not to leave your water running at full power while soaping your dishes. Only turn it on when needed.
Only use appliances with full loads
Even though dishwashers and washing machines have settings for smaller loads, they still use similar amounts of water and energy when compared to a full load.
By only running them with full loads, you increase their efficiency.
Clean your driveway and sidewalk with a broom
Using a hose to rinse off your driveway and sidewalk may be tempting, but it’s a huge waste of water.
By choosing to sweep instead of rinsing, you will save money and water.
Water your lawn early in the morning, or late in the evening
Watering your lawn early in the morning, or later in the evening greatly reduces the amount of water that will evaporate. At these times there are typically cooler temperatures and calmer winds, allowing for better absorption.
Hot water recirculation system
Hot water recirculation systems work by moving hot water from your water heater to the fixtures in your home, reducing the time waiting for hot water, as well as saving up to 1,000 gallons of water per person each year.
Mindful flushing
Being mindful of what you flush down the toilet can prevent blockages and leaks before they happen. Avoiding flushing trash will also help keep our beautiful rivers clean, and can save money and the environment from potential harm.
Maintain your plumbing system
A well-maintained plumbing system is a better plumbing system. Schedule regular maintenance checks on your plumbing and water systems to ensure they’re functioning at optimal safety and efficiency.
Want eco-friendly and budget-friendly plumbing? Call us.
Missoula residents care a great deal about our environment and the rivers that run through our great city. By doing our part as citizens, we can keep our waters clean and protect our traditions of blue trout fishing for years to come.
If you would like to learn more about how switching to an environmentally friendly plumbing system can help save the environment, contact the professionals at Plumb-Tech.
Our team of experts can provide you with valuable information and advice on how to make your plumbing more eco-friendly, including water conservation, energy efficiency, and waste reduction.
We can also help identify any issues with your plumbing that may contribute to environmental damage and provide solutions to address these problems. With our help, you can take important steps to reduce your environmental impact and contribute to a sustainable future.
So why wait? Contact Plumb-Tech today, and let us help you get on the right track.
