TekPicks

As Green Week rolls on it is time to talk about low flow appliances. Installing low-flow items like toilets and shower heads can add up to not only big savings but also a great way to conserve water. To show you what I mean, I broke out the old slide rule and crunched some numbers.

A low-flow shower head can reduce your water usage by 25% or more. This Delta model is adjustable from 2.5 gallons per minute down to 1.85 per minute. That means a family of 4 who each take a 10 minute shower per day can save 9,500 gallons a year. Based on the prices in my area that amounts to about $36 per year in cost savings.

But there’s more. After a little research I figured out it costs about $200 to heat all that water using a standard tank water heater. So for $25 you can save $236 or more per year and help conserve a ton (38 tons actually) of water. Seems like a good idea to me.

Grab It: Delta 75152 Water Amplifying Adjustable Showerhead

Believe it or not rainwater run-off is one of the worst pollutants of our creeks and rivers. This is because it can carry toxins from things like insecticides and fertilizers and can quickly overwhelm municipal treatment facilities during downpours. With the addition of a simple rain barrel you can help conserve water, prevent pollution and save a few bucks. Just attach the barrel to your gutter system and let it fill up. After a storm or two you will have an ample and renewable water supply for your plants or grass.

Grab It: 50 – gallon Woodgrain Barrel