5 Things You Need to Know About Furnace Maintenance

7 Winter Plumbing Tips to Save You Money on Your Water Bill

No one likes getting a high water bill, especially during the winter when we're already paying more for heat and electricity. The good news is that there are some things you can do to keep your plumbing from costing you an arm and a leg this winter. Read on for our top 7 tips to help save money on your water bill this winter.

1. Insulate Your Pipes

One of the main reasons people see a spike in their water bills during the winter is that their pipes are frozen. Frozen pipes prevent water from flowing into your home and can cause major damage to your plumbing if they burst. To prevent your pipes from freezing, ensure they are well insulated, especially if they run through an unheated area like a crawlspace or attic. You can purchase pipe insulation at most hardware stores or wrap them in newspapers or towels.

2. Let Your Faucets Drip

Another way to keep your pipes from freezing is to let your faucets drip overnight. This may seem like wasting water, but it's cheaper than repairing a burst pipe. If you have concerns about wasting water, only let your faucets drip when the outside temperature is below freezing.

3. Check for Leaks

A leaky faucet or toilet can waste a lot of water, and that wasted water will show up on your next water bill. To prevent leaks, ensure all of your faucets and fixtures are in good working order and don't hesitate to call a plumber like our team at Nautilus Plumbing if you think you might have a leak. We will inspect your home for leaks and create a plan to fix any problems we find.

4. Take Shorter Showers

Long showers may be relaxing, but they're also one of the leading causes of high water bills. To reduce the amount of water you use in the shower, try installing a low-flow showerhead or taking shorter showers. You can also save water (and money) by turning the faucet off while lathering up. We know it may sound a bit archaic, but if you need to save on winter water bills, conserving as much water usage as possible will help.

5. Don't Run the Dishwasher or Washing Machine Unless They're Full

Running your dishwasher or washing machine half empty is not only a waste of time, but it's also a waste of water and energy. To save money on your utilities this winter, only run these appliances when they're full, and be sure to select the energy-saving option if your dishwasher has one. You should also avoid using hot water when possible, as it takes more energy to heat up than cold water. 6. Install Low-Flow Fixtures

If you're serious about saving money on your water bill, then consider replacing some of your fixtures with low-flow alternatives. Low-flow toilets use less than half the amount of water as traditional toilets, and low-flow showerheads can save you hundreds of gallons per month. In most cases, these fixtures pay for themselves within a year due to the money they save on your utility bills.