Did you know that according to the EPA, the average household wastes nearly 10,000 gallons of water every year from easy-to-fix leaks? It's true! Even minor issues like dripping faucets and running toilets can add up to major water waste over time. Luckily, hiring a professional plumbing contractor to do an inspection and make repairs can significantly reduce your home's water usage. Here's how a plumbing contractor can reduce your water usage.

Check For Leaks

The first thing a plumbing contractor will do is a thorough inspection of your home's plumbing system to check for leaks. According to the EPA, 10% of homes have leaks that waste 90 gallons or more per day. That's a lot of clean drinking water going down the drain! Even small leaks, like a dripping kitchen faucet or a malfunctioning shower head, can waste hundreds of gallons per week. A plumbing contractor has the skills and tools to detect leaks.

Repair Your Fixtures

If leaks are found, a competent plumbing contractor will make fixing them a top priority. They can repair or replace worn faucets, shower heads, and other fixtures. Upgrading to water-efficient faucets and toilets with low-flow designs can also significantly reduce water usage. As technology improves, replacing older, inefficient fixtures with newer ones can cut water waste substantially.

Insulate the Pipes

Your plumbing contractor may also check exposed water pipes for insulation. Bare pipes can lose heat, increasing water waste as you wait for hot water to reach your faucet. Properly insulated pipes maintain temperatures and prevent pipes from freezing in winter. Insulated pipes also conserve water and can reduce your energy bills. Any pipes or valves in unheated areas like attics, basements, and garages should be well insulated by your plumber.

Maintain Over Time

Even after repairs are complete, it’s smart to have your plumbing contractor periodically do follow-up inspections and maintenance checks. Doing so helps catch any new leaks early before they become big problems. Simple maintenance like lubricating faucet valves and replacing worn-out washer seals can prevent drips. Your plumber can also make sure fixtures continue working properly over time. Scheduling annual plumbing inspections is a good way to stay on top of your home's water efficiency.

Hiring a qualified plumbing contractor is one of the best things you can do to reduce wasted water in your home. They have the skills to thoroughly inspect for leaks, make repairs, upgrade fixtures, insulate pipes, and provide ongoing maintenance. When you're ready to reduce your water usage, reach out to CV Plumbing Heating and Air for assistance.