Water Conservation
The basic idea behind water-saving devices is to restrict water consumption rates where heaviest use occurs. Indoor water usage runs about 40% for toilets, 30% for baths and showers, 15% for clothes washers and 15% for cooking and kitchen use.
The first target for water conservation is the toilet. Any new toilet consumes no more than 1.6 gallons per flush - but older models may consume as much as 7 gallons per flush. A dual flush mechanism and early closure flappers are two ways to save from 40 to 50% of normal water consumption. Leaks in the toilet tank can also be a source of excess water usage. Detect leaks by adding dark food coloring to the tank. After 20 minutes, check to see if the toilet bowl water has turned the same color.
Showers and baths are the next target for water savings. The most common way to regulate the flow of water is through flow control valves and flow restrictors. And low-flow showerheads will also help conserve water.
However, the biggest source of water waste is leaky faucets or pipes. Because of the wide variety of faucet washers available, it's usually best to visit your local Do it Best hardware or building center.
Click here for instructions on how to fix leaky faucets and toilets. Provided by DoitBest.com
Energy Star
ENERGY STAR products are the same or better than standard products, only they use less energy. To earn the ENERGY STAR, they must meet strict energy efficiency criteria set by the US Environmental Protection Agency or the US Department of Energy. Since they use less energy, these products save you money on your electricity bill and help protect the environment by causing fewer harmful emissions from power plants. And you get the features and quality you expect.... Click here for more information...
Heat Smartly with ENERGY STAR @ home
Click on Image to Launch energystar@home
Image and link by energystar.gov
The average family spends $1,900 a year on energy bills, much of which goes to heating and cooling. This winter, you can use less energy in your home and save money on energy bills. Saving energy also means you're doing your part to protect the environment and reduce the risks of global climate change... Click here for more information...
Download the energystar Do-It-Yourself Guide to Energy Star Home Sealing. PDF 1.0Mb
