Water conservation is not only for the summer. Although we are not using as much water as we do during the summer, there are many ways to conserve water and money during the winter months on Long Island. Here are just a few simple tips:
- Drip your faucets
Leave faucets dripping slightly overnight in extremely cold weather. If weather is below 32° for more than 3 or 4 nights turn your faucet on just enough for a slight trickle, by doing so you will have constant movement of the water which will prevent freezing. More water is wasted from a leaky pipe than you do from taking this precaution!
Want to take the conservation a step further? Stick a large pot or a bucket under the faucet that you’re dripping. You can use that water to flush the toilet or water plants, it won’t go to waste!
- Winterize your pipes
Cover all outside exposed pipes and wrap them with insulation. This can be obtained at your local hardware store. This will help keep your pipes warm and should prevent freezing.
- Turn down your heat
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can save about 10 percent per year on your heating bills by turning your thermostat down 10 to 15 degrees for eight hours. Keep your thermostat at 68 degrees or lower during the day. Turn your thermostat down to 60 degrees before you go to bed.
- Use your fans
The ceiling fans in your home are a great way to stay warm in the winter. Simply set the fans to operate in a clockwise direction. This will push warm air, which collects near the ceiling, back down into your room. If you do not have a ceiling fan then a regular small fan will work.
- Know where your shutoff valve is
Find the main shutoff valve in your home. If a pipe bursts in your kitchen, bath, basement or crawl space, this valve turns the water off to the entire house. Put a tag on the valve to identify it. Be sure you and all your family members know where it is in case of an emergency. Use water alarms in your basement and other critical spaces to notify you of a leak. You can purchase one by calling us!
For more year round easy tips please visit: Water Wisely
For a free estimate, contact Rain Rich at (631) 423-2211 or visit our website at www.rainrich.com. You may also contact us by emailing us at irrigationspecialist@rainrich.com.
