04 April 2024 , 11:14
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There's a little-known button on your shower that can save you money and water.
As bills keep piling up, we're all looking for ways to save some pennies. But it turns out, your shower settings might be secretly making your water bill higher. There's even a button on many modern showers that can automatically cut down the amount of water you use. Lots of the newest showerheads have a water-saving mode which lessens the water flow but doesn't change how good your shower feels, reports Bristol Live.
The experts at Plumbworld have shared that small changes, like the type of showerhead you use, can lead to big savings. Just by switching to a WaterSense-certified showerhead and taking shorter showers, you can really cut down on how much water you use. A spokesperson at bathroom and kitchen specialist Plumbworld said: "Adopting a 'navy shower' method, where the water is turned off while soaping or shampooing, presents a straightforward strategy for significantly reducing water use.
"This practice, while minor in effort, can lead to substantial savings on water bills and contributes positively to environmental conservation efforts. It's a practical step that underscores the importance of mindful water consumption and showcases how small habits can make a big difference.
"Integrating a shower timer into your routine serves as an effective tool for managing and reducing shower lengths. By setting a specific duration for showers, individuals are encouraged to become more conscious of their water use, aligning with broader environmental sustainability goals.
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"This approach not only aids in decreasing water bills but also instils a disciplined yet achievable water-saving habit. It reflects a commitment to making environmentally responsible choices that benefit both the individual and the planet."
Here are their top tips for cutting costs
High-pressure settings
Multi-setting showerheads often come with a high-pressure massage mode. This mode is designed to offer a more intense water flow, creating a massage-like sensation that can feel more luxurious and relaxing. However, achieving this higher pressure typically means using more water than with standard spray settings. This increased water use can quickly add up, leading to higher water bills over time.
Older showerheads
Showerheads that were manufactured before the early 1990s are not subject to the same water efficiency standards that newer models adhere to. These older models can have a flow rate of up to 5 gallons per minute, significantly higher than the 2.5 gallons per minute maximum flow rate that current regulations enforce. As a result, using an outdated showerhead can dramatically increase your water usage and, consequently, your water bill.
Multiple jets and rainfall settings
Modern shower systems often come with fancy features like multiple jets or large overhead rainfall showerheads. While these make your shower feel more luxurious, they can also use a lot more water than traditional showers. This means you could end up with a higher water bill.
Not using a water-saving mode
Many of the latest showerheads come equipped with an eco-friendly or water-saving mode. This mode is specifically designed to reduce water flow—without sacrificing the quality of your shower experience—helping to conserve water. By not utilising these water-saving features, users miss out on an easy opportunity to reduce their water consumption and save on their water bills.
Ways to reduce your water bill
Install water-efficient showerheads: Look for showerheads with the WaterSense certification. This label is awarded to showerheads that meet the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) criteria for water efficiency and performance. Switching to a WaterSense-certified showerhead can significantly reduce your water usage without compromising your shower experience.
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- Use eco-friendly settings: If your showerhead features a water-saving mode, make it a point to use this setting. These modes are specifically designed to reduce water usage while still providing an adequate showering experience, offering a simple way to cut down on water consumption.
- Take shorter showers: The duration of your showers plays a significant role in your overall water usage. By reducing your shower time by just a few minutes, you can save a considerable amount of water over time. This is one of the most straightforward methods to reduce your water bill.
- Regular maintenance: Regularly inspect your showerhead and any bathroom plumbing for leaks. Even small drips can lead to significant water wastage over time. Promptly fixing any leaks you discover is an effective measure in preventing unnecessary water usage and keeping your water bill in check.