3 Ways To Turn a Home Green for St. Patrick’s Day
In the fight to protect the environment, there is something for everyone to do. The truth is that environmental responsibility falls on everyone, and fortunately, there are things that everyone can do to make a difference. While St. Patrick’s Day is known for inspiring people to wear green, it is also good to reflect on habits that homeowners could change to become greener individuals.
This St. Patrick’s Day, homeowners should take some advice from local plumbers about making their home greener.
Low-Flow Fixtures
Protecting water resources is an important step in being green. Freshwater resources are vital to the health and safety of every human being. Not only is it important to be mindful of the water that is saved, but it is also helpful to remember the carbon footprint of water purification and sewage treatment. Fortunately, all of these can be handled by making the same change.
Low-flow fixtures can include bathroom sinks, kitchen sinks, showerheads, appliances, and toilets. Taken all together, they can cut water usage around the home significantly. This saves money on water bills and cuts down on the carbon footprint of water and sewer treatment.
Eco-Friendly Water Heaters
One of the biggest energy hogs in a home is the water heater. Water heaters typically account for nearly 10% of the utility usage around the home. Luckily, by updating a water heater, homeowners can take two important steps to protect the environment. First, newer models of water heaters are more energy-efficient. Second, updating a water heater can save water since it can heat water more efficiently.
When deciding to upgrade a water heater, the two main options to consider are:
- Hot Water Tanks: A conventional tank heats water and stores it. The storage can be a source of inefficiency, but newer models can be made so efficient that it helps compensate for running on standby when there is no hot water usage.
- Tankless Water Heaters: Tankless water heaters are one of the greatest pieces of green technology. Tankless heaters heat water on demand and don’t waste fuel in standby. They provide endless hot water instantly upon demand.
Green Habits
A lot of what it’s going to take to make the world a greener place is for people to change some of their energy-hogging habits. Investing in high-efficiency appliances and fixtures designed to save water is great, but homeowners can make even bigger strides by changing a few habits. A few ideas to reduce water usage and energy usage of plumbing related habits are:
- Turn off the water while brushing teeth
- Take shorter showers and use water-saving showerheads
- Wash dishes by hand or invest in water-saving and energy-efficient dishwashers
- Only wash clothes and dishes when there is a full load
- Immediately fix all plumbing leaks
- Install rain sensors on irrigation systems and water in the morning
About Captain Rooter Emergency Plumbers Chicago
Captain Rooter Emergency Plumbers Chicago has been protecting Chicago, IL homes since 1998. They never push products or services that aren’t necessary. Their 24-hour emergency plumbing service protects homeowners regardless of the hour.
