How to Keep Your System Running Smoothly and Your Water Bill Under Control

As winter arrives in full force, many homeowners are bracing themselves for a higher water bill. Between the increased usage of hot water and the risk of frozen pipes, water bills tend to spike during this time of year. However, there are several steps you can take to save money on your water bill in winter.

Leaky faucets may seem like a small problem, but they can significantly increase your water bill. According to the EPA, a leaky faucet that drips at one drip per second can waste over 3,000 gallons of water per year. To fix it, turn off the water supply, remove the handle to access the cartridge or stem, inspect it for damage, replace if worn, then reassemble and test. If you need help, let us know.

Taking shorter showers saves water, but you can also install a low-flow showerhead. A standard showerhead uses 2.5 gallons per minute, while a low-flow model uses 2 gallons or less — over a year, a family of four can save over 10,000 gallons.

Your water heater is another major contributor to your water bill in winter. The ideal temperature is 120 degrees Fahrenheit — hot enough to kill bacteria, but not so hot that you risk scalding. Turning down the temperature can save up to 5% on your water heating costs.

One of the biggest risks of winter weather is frozen pipes, which can burst and cause significant damage. Insulating your pipes with foam insulation helps keep them warm and prevent freezing, especially in unheated areas like your basement or attic.

• Only run full loads in your washing machine and dishwasher.
• Fix running toilets — a running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day.
• Use a rain barrel to collect water for your plants.

At Water Doctor of Washington, we offer a variety of plumbing services to help you reduce your water usage and keep your plumbing system running smoothly. Our team can help you identify leaks, install low-flow fixtures, and provide regular maintenance to prevent costly plumbing issues.