Shower vs Bath: Which Uses More Water? For people trying to cut household water use—and lower energy costs tied to hot water—the shower-versus-bath question is a common one. The practical answer: in many everyday scenarios, showers can be more water-efficient, but long, high-flow showers can quickly erase the advantage. Water consumption is mainly driven by volume (how much water flows into your drain or sits in the tub) and time (how long water runs). That means comparisons hinge on your faucet and showerhead settings, tub size, and how you use hot water during the process. Typical water use: showers A standard showerhead often uses roughly 2 to 2.5 gallons per minute , though modern “low-flow” models may be lower and some high-pressure setups can be higher. For example, a 5-minute shower could range around 10 to 12.5 gallons , while a 10-minute shower co ... Read more »
Winterize Your Plumbing in Illinois: Step-by-Step
Illinois winters can bring sudden cold snaps that test even well-built homes. Winterizing plumbing is about reducing the risk of frozen pipes (which can burst) and preparing fixtures, valves, and outdoor water lines for freezing temperatures.
1) Check when freezing can reach your pipes
Begin by identifying where water lines run: along exterior walls, through unheated basements/crawl spaces, garages, attics, and any sections near vents or poorly insulated areas. Those are the most vulnerable spots during overnight dips and wind-driven cold.
2) Insulate first, then plug gaps
Use pipe insulation rated for cold weather, especially on exposed supply lines and any “runs” that travel through unheated spaces. Add insulation to elbows, valves, and pipe-to-wall transitions—these points often cool faster than straight runs.
After insulating, look for draf ... Read more »
Comments
Post a Comment