Conserve Energy & Save on Your Water Bills This Winter

The average Canadian uses around 329 liters of water daily—enough to fill over five and a half beer kegs! Given that water is arguably our most vital resource, it makes perfect sense to conserve it wherever possible. By following these straightforward water-saving tips, you can reduce your household consumption while also shrinking your water bill.

1. DIY Toilet Tank Hacks

Did you know that 30% of household water goes toward flushing? Surprisingly, your toilet doesn’t actually require a full tank to flush properly. The “bottle-sand” trick works wonders here. Simply fill a bottle with water and sand, then place it inside your toilet tank. A standard plastic bottle, like a water bottle, will work just fine. Opt for a tall, narrow bottle that fits easily without disrupting the flushing mechanism.

Just remember, modern 1.6-liter toilets might not benefit from this method. Always check your toilet model and size before proceeding. If your tank holds less water already, you won’t gain much from adding the bottle.

2. Fix Leaky Faucets

Even minor leaks can quickly pile up into significant water waste. To avoid this, make sure to inspect your faucets, toilets, appliances, and sprinklers regularly—every six months is a good rule of thumb. Keep an eye out for both small drips and larger issues. If you struggle to track your home maintenance tasks, apps like Rümi can send reminders to keep everything running smoothly.

Don’t let those drips linger! Rümi’s plumbing experts are always ready to assist with any repairs or replacements.

3. Upgrade Your Washing Machine

Old-fashioned top-loaders tend to use far more water than their front-loading counterparts. Luckily, high-efficiency (HE) options are now available for both types. However, the HE top-loaders typically have longer wash cycles, so plan accordingly. If your current machine is nearing retirement, consider switching to a front-loader—it’s a win-win for both water savings and time efficiency.

In the meantime, try to wait until you’ve accumulated a full load before running the washer. Every drop counts!

4. Invest in Water-Efficient Fixtures

Technology has come a long way in the past couple of decades. New toilets, faucets, and appliances are leaps and bounds more efficient than older models. These upgrades not only save water but also lower your electricity bills. When shopping for replacements, prioritize energy and water efficiency—it’ll pay off in the long run.

5. Maintain Your Water Heater

A well-maintained water heater operates more efficiently. Regularly drain sediment from the tank's base and ensure the heating element is functioning correctly. Rümi’s plumbing team can handle repairs or replacements for almost any brand or model—even in emergencies.

We also offer tankless water systems that save space, provide continuous hot water, and consume up to 40% less energy compared to traditional tank heaters.

6. Insulate Your Hot Water Pipes

Insulating your hot water pipes minimizes heat loss, delivering water that’s 1°–3°C warmer than uninsulated ones. Lowering your hot water tank’s temperature setting can save energy and reduce costs. Plus, you’ll enjoy faster access to hot water when turning on taps or showers, further conserving resources.

Properly maintaining your water pipes during colder months prevents potential bursts when temperatures rise again.

Small Changes, Big Impact

Adopting water-saving habits doesn’t require an overhaul of your lifestyle. Even minor adjustments, like fixing leaks or insulating pipes, can significantly reduce your home’s water footprint. So why not start today?