Water, the elixir of life is thankfully in abundance all around us but it has also become a chronic problem plaguing our daily lives. In a recent statement by the US Environmental Protection Agency, some 36 states have already experienced or will experience some sort of regional, statewide or local water shortage problems in the past 12 months. Water shortage is slowly becoming a major issue for commercial and consumer establishments, the brunt of which is felt at home.
Efficiency Overrules Conservation
To understand the terms water efficiency and conservation, first we must take a look at the commercial sector where water is not a privilege but rather mistaken to be a god given right. First of all, water use is dependent on many factors and this goes for domestic usage as well such as the local climate, usage pattern and building age. Among all the places water is needed in an office environment, the toilet or restrooms are the number one culprit. Quite naturally, US Department Of Energy suggests efficient usage of water in restrooms and this is where it highlights the difference between conservation and efficiency.
Water Conservation
Usually when society is faced with serious shortage of water, local governments impose restrictions on water usage forcing consumers to use less water. However, the moment this shortage has passed, such restrictions are removed. This is a perfect example of water conservation, practiced during times of shortage.
Water Efficiency
This is a long-term reduction of water usage that isn’t triggered by water shortage or current situations. Quite simply, homes that practice water efficiency are hardwired to use less water than usual.
The Large Scale Benefits Of Efficiency Over Conservation
Once again to understand the advantages of efficiency over conservation, let’s take a look at the money spent on practicing efficiency. Yes, it involves planning and implementing efficiency programs, installing new equipment and operating efficiency projects but the long term cost drops as you use less water, energy bills reduce and the environment profits too.
Practicing Water Efficiency In Your Kitchen
Now that you have understood the fundamental difference between efficiency and conservation, let’s get down to the steps you can take in your own kitchen.
- Replace faucets that drip or sprout leaks immediately, do not wait until the leaks become significant.
- Install restrictive aerators on your faucets that drop the water pressure down by an approximate 2 gallons per minute. You really won’t feel the difference.
- Use sprayers more often than taps to limit water usage.
- Regularly service and replace plumbing components as and when necessary.
- Learn and practice rainwater harvesting if your region experiences moderate to heavy rainfall.
These measures also apply to your restrooms, bathrooms and boilers but more so in the kitchen that experiences a higher rate of usage.
