Going Green Has Never Been Easier
Now that the snow is thawing and St. Patrick’s Day is just around the corner, many people turn in their winter clothes for springtime attire. But that’s not the only thing many homeowners are thinking about; many wonder how they can switch to eco-friendly plumbing systems now that winter’s over.
Going green has never been easier. Not only do many states offer financial incentives for homeowners to upgrade to “green” appliances, but there are countless things homeowners can do to conserve both water and money. Here are just three considerations:
Homeowners Can Invest in Water-Saving Appliances
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) stands firmly behind WaterSense and EnergyStar appliances. Why? Well:
- These eco-friendly appliances are designed to save water, making sure homeowners get the most out of showering, dishwashing, and more.
- Many states provide tax incentives for homeowners to switch to these products. Some of those incentives could pay for the cost of the appliance or installation costs. It all depends on where one lives.
- One can power many EnergyStar and WaterSense appliances with renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and geothermal energy.
- These appliances break down less than appliances on the market ten years ago. This isn’t only convenient, but it limits how many services a call a home needs.
Furthermore, eco-friendly appliances can increase a home’s value. This can increase how much homeowners can get for their residences if and when they sell.
Adapt Eco-Friendly Habits 
- Turning off the faucet when brushing one’s teeth or shaving.
- Using the dishwasher instead of washing dishes by hand.
- Taking showers instead of baths.
- Using a compost bin instead of a home’s garbage disposal.
- Installing low-flow showerheads and toilets.
- Only running the dishwasher or washing machine when it’s full.
The best thing homeowners can do to save water is to be mindful. Being eco-friendly isn’t a passive, once-in-a-while practice; it involves consciously being aware of one’s water consumption habits. This isn’t just taking short showers. It also involves:
- Promptly addressing any leaks
- Installing new appliances once they’ve reached their life expectancy
- Monitoring the home’s water meter for any unexpected increases
Homeowners can talk to home improvement professionals to learn more about reducing their home’s water consumption.
Avoid Flushing Certain Items Down the Toilet 
An eco-friendly campaign unfolding in New York City: “Don’t flush it. Trash it.” If one wonders whether an item is flushable, they should err on the side of caution and trash it. The campaign encourages people to:
- Throw away sanitation wipes – even if they claim to be flushable.
- Do not pour hot grease down the drain; wait until it cools and pour it into the garbage can.
- Avoid flushing condoms, menstrual products, paper towels, and diapers down the toilet.
NYC says that, in doubt about whether to flush something, they should only flush the four P’s: poop, pee, puke, and toilet paper. Only flushing these items is just one way one can maintain a healthy plumbing system.
About Bud’s Plumbing & Repair Service
Bud’s Plumbing & Repair Service is a firm supporter of green plumbing. These professionals offer homeowners in Evansville an array of home improvement services and can help with green plumbing solutions.
