« The common sense of faucets: a common mistake that drives up your bills, according to a plumber »
| Highlights |
| Daily consumption of hot water: about 50 liters per person. |
| Heading straight to the hot is a common mistake. |
| Use water at lukewarm temperature to reduce costs. |
| Turn off the water during soaping, for example, when washing hands. |
| Locking the mixer on “hot” should be avoided. |
| Leaks, even minor ones, impact your bills. |
| Potential savings: 5 to 10% on hot water bills. |
| Every action counts to preserve the planet and reduce costs. |
Water consumption that can inflate your bills
Every day, the hot water consumption per individual is about 50 liters. This amounts to 20 cubic meters per year, a revealing statistic about expenses in water and electricity consumption. Hot water, which does not flow directly at the desired temperature, requires heating. This process, although common, is often neglected in its management, leading to unnecessary costs. By slightly changing habits, surprising savings can be realized, thus reducing electricity bills while being environmentally friendly.
Wise adjustments of the faucet
A simple gesture, often forgotten, is to set the faucet to a lukewarm temperature instead of hot. Mixing cold water with hot water is common, as few people wash their hands or take a shower at 50 °C. By adjusting this setting on the mixer, not only does the temperature rise more slowly, but it also helps reduce energy consumption. Adopting this practice represents a step towards substantial savings.
Common mistakes and their consequences
Many people leave the faucet on the hot position after use. This negligence can lead to accidental burns as well as energy wasting. Every time hot water remains active, even a minor leak can incur unexpected long-term expenses. Indeed, the heating of water is triggered each time the faucet is opened if the mixer remains in the hot position. Thus, repositioning the faucet immediately to “cold” after use results in a significant reduction in energy costs.
Realizable savings through daily actions
The decision to use the cold water faucet can lead to notable savings. By avoiding unexpected activations of the water heater or boiler, the electricity or gas consumed decreases. Each year, the harm avoided by this simple habit can amount to dozens of euros. These savings go beyond mere expense reduction; they also contribute to the preservation of natural resources. Realizing that these small daily actions directly impact both the wallet and the planet is essential.
Individual responsibility in water consumption
By becoming aware of daily actions, everyone can take responsibility for excessive water consumption. The amount found on the water bill should not be a burden but rather an element that can be controlled. Deciding to change certain lifestyle habits, through adjustments regarding faucets and showers, invites a collective awareness. Every effort counts, and every drop saved helps contribute to optimal management of our planet’s water resources.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Common Sense of Faucets: A Common Mistake that Inflates Your Bills, According to a Plumber
Why is my water bill so high?
Poor management of your faucet usage can often lead to water waste. For example, leaving the faucet on “hot” even when you are not using hot water, or forgetting to turn it off while washing, significantly raises your bills.
What is the first step to save water when using the faucet?
The first step is to adjust the mixer to the “lukewarm” position instead of “hot”. This helps reduce the rapid heating of the water and thus decreases energy consumption.
Is it better to turn off the water while brushing my teeth?
Yes, it is recommended to turn off the water while brushing your teeth. This allows for significant water savings in the long term.
What should I do if my faucet is leaking?
It is crucial to repair a leak quickly, as even a slight drip can lead to significant water waste and increase your bills. Contact a plumber if necessary.
How do I know if I should turn the mixer back to cold water after use?
After finishing using the water, it is best to return the mixer to cold water. This avoids keeping hot water in the system, which can incur extra costs compared to its heating.
What savings can I achieve by keeping the faucet on cold water?
On average, keeping the faucet on cold water can save 5 to 10% on your hot water bill. These savings can add up to several dozen euros per year.
Why is it important to check the water temperature before using it?
Checking the water temperature helps avoid burns and reduces the energy needed to heat the water, thus contributing to cost reductions on your bills.
What other simple actions can help reduce my water consumption?
In addition to turning off the water when washing hands or brushing teeth, you might consider collecting rinse water or using water-efficient devices to further reduce your consumption.
