March 22 is World Water Day.

First celebrated in 1993, this event is designed to bring awareness to the world’s need for safe drinking water. For most of us in the United States, water is something we take for granted; something that is readily available, whenever or wherever we need it.

Outside our borders, things are a little different.  In fact, they’re a lot different, especially in third world countries.  Nearly 1 billion people lack access to clean water, and more than 2.6 billion don’t have access to adequate sanitation.

So, what can you do to help? Start by checking out World Water Day to learn more about what’s being done to create greater awareness of the world’s potable water supply.  You’ll also find a wealth of information on current and planned programs to assure prolonged sustainability and greater access for the disadvantaged.  And, of course, there’s plenty you and your family can do at home to conserve water.

  1. Save approximately 1,000 gallons of water a month by running your washing machine and dishwasher only when they are full.
  1. Don’t leave the water running while brushing your teeth. This will conserve 25 gallons per person per month. Instead, fill a cup to rinse your mouth and run the water just long enough to clean the brush.
  1. Replace your toilets, faucets, and shower heads with low-flow models to further reduce water usage by 20%.
  1. Insulate your hot water pipes. Not only will hot water arrive faster than before, your action will reduce heat, energy, and water consumption through reduced waiting times.
  1. If your water heater is more than 15 years old, consider updating it with an energy efficient tankless water heater. Tankless units heat water faster than most storage tank models, and that saves both energy and water.

It may not seem like a lot:  a drop saved here, a gallon there. But considering that the average household uses 260 gallons of water a day, every drop and gallon counts.

Here at Burton, we have numerous ways to help you conserve water without sacrificing comfort or convenience.  Contact us today to learn more.