The toilet is the biggest household water bandit; the average toilet uses 4 to 7 gallons per flush! Low volume toilets, which can easily replace your old inefficient toilet, will save over five gallons per use. If you cannot replace your toilet just yet, you should at least verify that it is working properly. You can easily check it for leaks by placing a drop of food coloring in the tank. If color shows up in the bowl without flushing, the toilet has a leak.
Even if you prefer long showers, you can still save water. A low-flow shower head will save 50 gallons of water during a 10-minute shower and doesn't cost that much to install. Most models have a shut off valve that will save even more water by stopping the water while you lather up. For bath lovers, a shallow bath uses less water than a 10-minute shower, so enjoy.
Water-Stretching Tip: Placing a bucket in the shower catches water that you can use to wash the car, to water plants, or to clean most anything
A little prevention costs a whole lot less than a major repair. It's true in many areas of our life, and plumbing is no different. Regular attention can prevent most breakdowns with water heaters, toilets and faucets. Unfortunately, too often, this lesson is not learned until the damage is done and the bill is paid. As with your home's heating and cooling systems, your plumbing system will cost you less and serve you longer when it is cleaned and checked on a regular basis. Most progressive service companies offer annual packages to serve this need at a reasonable cost.