Simple tips for using less hot and cold water

Did you know that a faucet dripping only one drop per second wastes enough water in one month to fill six bathtubs? And roughly 25 per cent of the energy used in a home is for heating water? However, homeowners can save money, reduce energy use and diminish their impact on the environment by following these simple water-wise tips.

• Wash clothes with cold water. Between 80 and 90 per cent of the energy used to wash clothes is for heating the water. If all families switched to cold water washing, British Columbians would save $87 million.
• Install low-flow showerheads. They can use 40 per cent less hot water than older models and can be installed in minutes.
• Use faucet aerators. They mix air bubbles in the flow of water, slowing the amount of water that flows out, and save up to 40 per cent of the water used for hand washing.
• Keep a jug of water in the fridge rather than running the tap for cold water.

To learn more about ways to conserve energy in everyday life, as well as BC Hydro’s Power Smart residential programs such as mail-in rebates, ENERGY STAR® windows, PST exemptions and Power Smart New Homes, visit www.bchydro.com/powersmart.