Water-saving tips for home buyers

If you’re on the market for an older home, you’ll want to keep an eye out for water fixtures. Older homes don’t always have the latest in water-saving devices. Some even have a few water-wasters. The good news? A lot of these problems can be fixed quickly and cheaply and keep costs reduced on the water bill. Here are three issue areas to look for and how to fix them:

Shower heads. Putting in new, water-saving shower heads can have a big impact on your bill. Look for showerheads that average 2.5 gallons or less per minute.

Faucets. A dripping faucet can send gallons of water down the drain every day. This is the first place to start when checking for waste.

Toilets. Older toilets can use a lot more water than newer models, especially if an older one has a leak. Take a few minutes to inspect each toilet; you can typically hear and see evidence of leaks.

Another good way to save? Talk to your water company. Many municipalities have water-saving programs and incentives that can save you money. In some cases, they may be able to determine if you need a water pressure regulator, which could help cut down on your water use.