With the holidays around the corner, you might be one of the many homeowners preparing to host guests. Since you will have more people in your home, your appliances and plumbing will be used more frequently. However, that isn’t a reason for your water bill to spike. The pros at Sal Manzo Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Inc. have prepared a list of tips to help you save water while entertaining.

Inspect for Hidden Leaks

The EPA estimates that the average household loses 10,000 gallons of water every year to leaks. With increased holiday use, that waste can escalate. Before your guests arrive, check these common areas:

• The Toilet: A worn-out flapper can cause water to drip into the bowl long after a flush. Replacing this simple seal is an easy way to prevent a running toilet.
• The Showerhead: A dripping showerhead can often be fixed by tightening the connection to the stem or applying a fresh layer of Teflon tape.
• Faucets: Leaks in the kitchen or bathroom are usually caused by worn-out gaskets or washers. Replacing these small components before guests arrive can save significant water.

Manage Shower Usage

With more people in the house, shower time adds up quickly. Encourage everyone to be mindful of water usage. Taking shorter showers yourself sets a great example and helps ensure that the hot water supply lasts for everyone in the household.

Efficient Holiday Cleanup

Holiday dinners are wonderful, but the cleanup can be taxing. Your dishwasher is actually a water-saving alternative to hand-washing, provided it is fully loaded. To save even more water, skip the pre-rinse under the faucet; instead, scrape food scraps directly into the trash before loading your dishes.

Conclusion

Hosting family and friends should be a joy, not a financial burden. By performing a quick inspection and encouraging a few simple habits, you can keep your water bill under control and your plumbing system running smoothly through the busiest time of year. If you find a leak you can’t fix, our team is always ready to assist.