Water Conservation

As you may know, utility expenses are our single biggest line item at Carmel Condominiums.  In 2009, we paid Birmingham Water Works an astounding $18401.29 (that's an average of $65.00 per unit / per month).  For 2010, we're expecting expenses to increase even more (up to 15%).

There are a number of ways to save water, and they all start with you.  To find out more, check out 100+ Ways To Conserve provided by the Water: Use It Wisely campaign.

Here are a few of my favorites:

1. Run your clothes washer and dishwasher only when they are full. You can save up to 1,000 gallons a month.
2. For cold drinks keep a pitcher of water in the refrigerator instead of running the tap. This way, every drop goes down you and not the drain.
3. Make sure there are water-saving aerators on all of your faucets.
4. Turn off the water while brushing your teeth and save 25 gallons a month.
5. Report broken pipes, open hydrants and errant sprinklers to the property manager or your water provider.
6. When you give your pet fresh water, don't throw the old water down the drain. Use it to water your plants.
7. Shorten your shower by a minute or two and you'll save up to 150 gallons per month.
8. Upgrade older toilets with water efficient models.
9. If your dishwasher is new, cut back on rinsing. Newer models clean more thoroughly than older ones.
10. Grab a wrench and fix that leaky faucet. It's simple, inexpensive, and you can save 140 gallons a week.
11. If your toilet was installed before 1992, reduce the amount of water used for each flush by inserting a displacement device in the tank.
12. If your toilet flapper doesn't close after flushing, replace it.
13. To save water and time, consider washing your face or brushing your teeth while in the shower.
14. When you are washing your hands, don't let the water run while you lather. 
15. Share water conservation tips with friends and neighbors.

--Brandi Thorpe