We can’t live without water, and luckily for the most part we seem to have all the water we need. But these days water shortages are becoming more and more of a problem. Recently the Environmental Protection Agency of the US stated that in the past year, 36 different states have experienced some level of water shortage. This issue is becoming a problem both for businesses and households, but we really bear the brunt of it in our homes.
Efficiency is Better than Conservation
What is the difference between conservation and efficiency? It’s easier to see if we look at water usage in the business sector, where all too often access to water is treated as an inalienable right rather than a privilege. How much water businesses use depends on several factors, including the type of business, the climate and the age of the building. In office settings, most of the water is used in washrooms, and here is where efficiency could make a big difference.
Conservation
Local governments often restrict the use of water during a shortage. People are told not to water their lawns, for example, and they may face fines if they do so. But as soon as the crisis passes, the restrictions are lifted and everyone goes back to business as usual. In the long run, this style of conservation doesn’t change anything.
Efficiency
If you find a way to permanently reduce how much water you use, whether or not there’s a shortage, you are practicing water efficiency.
Why Efficiency Beats Conservation
Making your home more water efficient will cost you some money initially. You may have to buy some new fixtures and do some repairs. In the long run, your water usage will drop and your bills will drop too. Best of all, the environment benefits, and if enough people practice water efficiency, there will be less danger of running out of water.
Making Your Kitchen Water Efficient
If you’re ready to make your kitchen more water efficient, here are some strategies you can try.
- Replace or repair faucets that leak or drip as soon as you notice a problem. Don’t wait for the leak to get bigger
- Make sure your faucet has a restrictive aerator that reduces water flow by about 2 gallons per minute. Chances are you won’t even notice the difference.
- Using spray instead of stream will reduce your water usage.
- Repair your plumbing and replace worn-out parts on a regular basis.
- Learn how to harvest rainwater if it’s practical in your area.
You should think about water efficiency in your washrooms and laundry room too. But because kitchens use a lot of water, they’re a good place to start.