Water is our most precious finite resource and with water wastage and over-usage becoming a very real problem globally with the changing climate, it is important that as a society we do everything we can to conserve it. As the bathroom is responsible for two-thirds of household water usage, it is the place where we need to be most mindful of the water we are using.
Check for leaks
Did you know that one in 10 homes and businesses have a leaky toilet? A leaking toilet can waste around 200 to 400 litres of water a day. It is often caused by the flush or fill valve. It is worth checking your toilet for leaks at least once a year. A simple test can identify whether your toilet is leaking; put 10-15 drops of food colouring in the toilet tank, wait 30 minutes without flushing and check to see if the water in the toilet bowl changes colour. If it does, this indicates that you have a leak.
Be mindful when using taps
Bathroom taps are a key part of your daily routine, but having an older tap and/or using your taps inefficiently can result in excessive and unnecessary water consumption. It is important that taps are not continually running during handwashing, teeth brushing or shaving if you are committed to saving water in the bathroom.
Similar to toilets, taps should also be checked for leaks, which are often caused by worn tap washers that need replacing.
Taps with aerators or flow regulator attachments are also becoming increasingly popular and can help to reduce water wastage.
Opt for a cistern displacement device
Flushing toilets is the second largest use of water in the home. A cistern displacement device is a cost-effective way to save water when you flush. It is simply a bag filled with crystals that expands when the toilet is flushed, meaning that there is less room in the toilet tank and therefore less water is used to fill it. This can save up to two litres of water per flush.
Make use of greywater
Greywater is used water from your bathroom sinks, baths and showers. This type of water makes up approximately 50-80% of household wastewater and can be easily treated and recycled. This water can be used for irrigation in the garden, flushing toilets and even washing clothes. It is possible to install greywater recycling systems into your home which can save up to 70 litres of drinking water per day.
Consider upgrading your bathroom products
At H2O, we supply several premium brands that offer sustainable bathroom products and accessories designed to help customers save water and energy while enjoying a spa-like luxury bathroom experience.
Some examples include Hansgrohe’s EcoSmart technology, a built-in flow limiter, which is included in their shower and tap products and consumes 60% less water than standard products. As proud North East suppliers of Villeroy & Boch, we are keen to make our clients aware of the brand’s innovative TwistFlush technology which is available with several Villeroy & Boch collections and helps save up to 19,700 litres of water a year based on a family of four’s average water consumption.
If you’re looking for advice on saving water in the bathroom, talk to our specialists today at 0191 487 6377 to find out more about the sustainable products available that could help you save resources and money in the long-run.
