The average monthly household water bill in Virginia is $70. However high or low that may seem, one thing we can all agree on is that our water bill can always be lower. Fortunately, there are some practical things you can do to reduce your water bill at home. Read our tips below and call us if you have any further questions about water heater service in Sterling, Virginia.  

1. Get a High-Efficiency Water Heater

Old water heaters are much less energy efficient, both because they are aging and because standards were lower back then, which could mean more money you’re paying each month in energy costs compared to a newer heater. It’s generally accepted that most water heaters last an average of about 13 years.   High efficiency water heaters use 10 to 50 percent less energy than standard models, saving homeowners money on their utility bills. Actual energy savings from high efficiency water heaters depend on family size, heater location, and the size and placement of water pipes.

2. Install a Tankless Water Heater

According to Energy.gov, homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily, demand (or tankless) water heaters can be 24% to 34% more energy efficient than conventional storage tank water heaters. Tankless water heaters (if gas-fired) will save homeowners over signicantly annually the longer they remain in service.   Reports vary on how much money tankless water heaters actually save. According to Energy Star, they can save $100 or more per year, while Consumer Reports estimates savings to be $70-80 per year. To estimate your savings, think about your family’s water usage.

 3. Schedule Routine Plumbing Maintenance

One of the best ways to reduce your water bill each month is to keep your plumbing system in excellent condition. When all the parts are working as they should, your plumbing operates more efficiently. You also reduce plumbing repairs, which can also cost hundreds of dollars.    When hiring a plumber in Sterling, Virginia, look for a plumbing company that offers a plumbing maintenance plan. A maintenance plan typically includes an inspection and discounts or savings on plumbing maintenance services. You can reduce your water bill at home and save money on maintenance costs annually.

4. Address Water Leaks Right Away

A water leak can be a big problem in your home, causing extensive structural damage in the walls and flooring or down in your basement. Water leaks are also responsible for high water bills. Where are the most common plumbing leaks?  

• Around the toilet
• Under the sink
• At the water heater base
• In showers and tubs
• Around exterior faucets and hoses

  Many water leaks are hidden. You may not notice them until the water has caused extensive damage in the walls or subflooring. If you notice a water leak, contact a plumber right away. A plumber has the equipment necessary to perform professional water leak detection. They can fix the problem and help you reduce your water bill by cutting down on water consumption.

 5. Find Ways to Conserve Water

In addition to addressing plumbing issues and investing in high-efficiency water heaters, you can also find creative ways to use less water. You can save up to $300 annually on your bill by cutting back water consumption by up to 25%. Don’t think it’s possible? Here are some ways to conserve water at home  

• Use your toilet for human waste only
• Spend less time in the shower
• Keep cold water in your refrigerator
• Turn off water while brushing teeth
• Turn off water while shaving
• Run your dishwasher on full loads only
• Buy high-efficiency appliances
• Irrigate your lawn only when necessary
• Wash full loads of laundry
• Wash clothes in cold water when possible

  Look around the house to find ways that you can conserve water. If everyone in your family does their part, you will notice a significant reduction in water, which helps you reduce your water bill at home.

6. Find Green Solutions for Your Bathroom or Kitchen Remodel

A kitchen or bathroom remodel may improve the look of your plumbing design or fixtures. But will it improve your plumbing’s performance? Since you are investing in a new room, you may want to find innovative ways to save on water consumption.   For instance, buy water-saving shower heads, high-efficiency toilets, green sinks, high-efficiency appliances, and sustainable plumbing materials. Be proactive in your search for green solutions that conserve water. Many high-efficiency appliances and bathroom components are surprisingly affordable and will pay for themselves over time. 

7. Install a Water Softener in Your Plumbing Systems

A water softener is a filtration system that works to remove high concentrations of calcium and magnesium that cause hard water. When water flows through a water softener, the system filters out these hard water minerals and the softened water then leaves the water softening system to flow through plumbing.   How does a water softener save you money? It takes more water to clean your skin, hair, clothing, dishes, and other items when the water is hard. Soft water removes harmful calcium and magnesium deposits, allowing the water to do its job more efficiently. The best way to soften the water is to install a water softener system for your entire plumbing system.

Schedule Plumbing Service in Sterling, Virginia

Don’t settle for just any plumber for your next plumbing installation or repair. Instead, hire the seasoned plumbing professionals at Cardinal, Plumbing, Heating & Air. We offer complete plumbing services in Sterling, Virginia. Contact us today for an in-home assessment and get an estimate on plumbing work.