October 12, 2024

Americans use about 30% of their household water for outdoor needs, and some experts estimate that as much as half of that water gets wasted. However, there is a simple and inexpensive way to reduce that usage by capturing the free water that falls from the sky.

This week, we're diving into the benefits of rain barrels and sharing other steps you can take to reduce the amount of water you use. Plus, we have an amazing energy hack that could nearly cut your power costs in half.

THE BIG FIX

Rain barrels are an easy way to save on your water bills — and cut down on waste

We let hundreds of gallons of rainwater wash off our roofs as we turn on sprinklers or grab a hose to water our lawns and gardens. It seems silly to let perfectly good water go to waste. A rain barrel can collect that free water so you can have it on tap for your garden.

As those of you who live in drought-stricken areas know, there can be restrictions on how much water you can use. A rain barrel is an easy way to water your lawn and non-edible plants even with water restrictions.

While the monetary savings aren't massive, you will reduce your water usage, which reduces your water bill. Plus, you can add those savings to these other water-saving measures at home:

Under-sink water heater: This delivers instant hot water so you don't need to waste water waiting for it to heat up.
Energy Star washing machine: Standard washing machines use about 20 gallons per wash, while an Energy Star-certified machine only uses 14 gallons.
Low-flow toilets: Old, inefficient toilets can use up to 7 gallons per flush, but low-flow toilets only use 1.6 gallons or less.

If you decide to get a rain barrel, you'll also want to get a few cement paver blocks or a rain barrel stand to lift it off the ground so you can easily fit a watering can under the spigot. You'll also want to check if your downspout is square or round — you may need a round diverter kit.

Should the government be allowed to restrict how much water we use?

Definitely 💯

Only during major droughts 🏜️

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PRO TIP

Once you realize the huge amount of water that is falling on your roof and being wasted, it is easy to get obsessed with rain barrels.

Brian Stewart
Co-Founder of Electrify Now

WHERE TO START

Our top rain barrel choice offers a clever solution to a common problem

The EarthMinded DIY Rain Barrel Bundle is a solid option for your rain-collecting needs and can be easily hooked up to your downspout.

Excess water is a common issue, and most kits don't address the problem. The EarthMinded system is cleverly designed so that any excess water simply goes down your existing downspout and you don't have to worry about overflow issues.

The products recommended in TCD Home Edition are selected in partnership with Electrify Now, an organization dedicated to helping Americans improve their lives by upgrading to high-efficiency electric products and clean energy sources. You can see more of their resources here.

ONE EASY HACK

This simple tip can cut up to 50% off your energy bill — all it takes is a little planning

There are many things you can do to lower your energy bill, but according to one frugal TikToker, it's not so much what you do, but when you do it.

The TikToker, who specializes in money-saving tips, explained why you should look at the clock before performing energy-intensive tasks.

YOU ASK → WE ANSWER

I live alone and cook at home a lot. Does it still make sense to use my dishwasher over handwashing?

– Aaron F.

Hey, Aaron! That's a good question.

In most cases, running the dishwasher uses much less water than washing dishes by hand. Energy Star dishwashers can use as little as 3 gallons per load, and it's estimated that washing the same dishes by hand could use up to 27 gallons.

Even older, inefficient dishwashers use much less water than washing by hand. That said, if you only have a few dishes, then it's likely more wasteful to run a mostly empty dishwasher. So either wait until it's more full, or wash by hand and strictly limit how long you let the faucet run.

If you are loading the dishwasher, try to limit the amount of pre-rinsing you do. I know it's hard, but most newer dishwashers can handle some food being left on dishes, just be sure to scrape off as much as you can into the compost first.

Even if you are running the dishwasher, there are certain dishes you should always wash by hand. Fragile dishes, hand-painted items, and wood can all be damaged by the high heat and force of a dishwasher. I also wash sharp knives by hand to prevent rust and corrosion.

– Nick from TCD