Between staying cozy indoors and managing snow and ice, our water use habits often change in ways that can waste more than we realize. Here are some simple tips to make smart water choices inside your home and when dealing with winter weather outside.
Smart Indoor Water Use
During winter, most of us spend more time indoors, which naturally increases water usage. Being mindful of small daily habits can make a big difference. Warm showers feel especially good on cold days, but they can quickly waste gallons of water. Shortening your shower time and using a low-flow showerhead are simple ways to reduce waste without giving up comfort.
Dishwashing is another area where water efficiency counts. If you’re using a dishwasher, make sure it’s fully loaded before running it. This reduces the number of cycles needed and saves both water and energy. When washing dishes by hand, filling one basin with soapy water for washing and another for rinsing is much more efficient than letting the tap run.
Baths can be a great way to relax during cold weather, but overfilling the tub uses far more water than necessary. Filling it halfway still provides plenty of warmth while saving a significant amount of water. Winter is also a good time to check for leaks, as the season can put extra strain on pipes. Fixing a dripping faucet or a running toilet promptly can prevent wasted water and keep your utility bills lower.
Dealing With Snow and Ice
Winter weather often brings its own water challenges, particularly with snow and ice management. Spraying icy driveways or sidewalks with water might seem like a quick solution, but it wastes water and often makes the ice problem worse. A shovel or broom is a much better option for clearing snow, and sprinkling sand or gravel adds traction without water waste.
If you use salt to melt ice, it’s important to do so sparingly. Over-salting not only harms plants and wildlife but also contributes to water pollution when the melted runoff flows into storm drains. After the ice is gone, sweeping up leftover salt ensures that it doesn’t wash away into local waterways.
In Conclusion…
Every small effort counts, ensuring that water is used wisely even during the coldest months of the year. These simple changes add up, making a lasting impact for your home and the planet.
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