water conservation in your kitchen
The average citizen uses 20 gallons of water while washing dishes. Where a dishwasher only uses 10 gallons and this is if it’s an older version. Current dishwashers are design to wash automatically when the inside is full and will only use 4.5 gallons; making this a huge difference. But let’s face it the truth is that in this economy not everyone can afford such service, the most traditional and affordable way is to hand wash where if we leave the water running those 20 gallons turn into 30 or even 40. Most of us don’t put much attention when it comes to letting the water run. Useful tips on how to prevent this waste of water are listed in the right side. These tips can be implied by any San Luis Arizona resident in their washing dishes routine.
-When you do wash dishes by hand, try using a little water to get your sponge soapy and wet, then turning off the faucet until you're ready to rinse a bunch of dishes at once. Better yet, plug the sink or get a tub to wash dishes in so you don't need to let the water run.
-Secure your faucets for leaks, a drippy faucet can add up to many gallons down the drain. It takes 15,000 drips to make one gallon, but a faucet leaking at five drips a minute adds up to 173 wasted gallons a year.
-When hand washing in a double sink, plug one side and use that basin for rinse water instead of running the tap.
-When washing by hand, soak to soften the residue, then scrub with a brush or sponge. Only use running water for a final rinse, never as a cleaning tool.
-When washing a jar or glass, put in a small amount of soapy water and shake with the cover on. Then transfer the water to the next utensil. Wipe and rinse.
Tips to save water:
Water and Cooking
In addition to washing dishes another routine we do in the kitchen and perhaps the most constant one would be prepping a meal. 7 gallons of water is the average being used each time something is in the process of being cooked. This amount can vary depending of exactly what you are using the water for. For example water is not only being used to wash vegetables but also as a form of defrosting frozen food with water pouring on top of it. Just regular activities we all do that can be prevented by planning ahead. There are many ways to diminish the amount of water we use; here are several tips on how to save water when cooking.
Tips to save water
-Unsalted cooking water (from pasta, potatoes, vegetables, etc.) can be reused to water plants outdoors. Let it cool to room temperature before transferring to plants.
-Vegetables prepared in a steamer need a fraction of the water to cook. Put your vegetable steamer right on top of the rice, potatoes or pasta you're boiling to steam the veggies. You'll save water and have fewer dishes to wash later
-Stop using running water to defrost frozen food. Instead, use defrost settings for your microwave.
-Plan ahead and defrost foods in the refrigerator to avoid soaking.
- Boil food in as little water as possible to save water and cooking fuel. Using a minimum of cooking water retains nutrients and saves on cooking time. Pasta needs much less water than the package instructs, just stir frequently.
-Don’t let your faucet needlessly run while you’re cooking. You’re letting good water (as well as energy and money) run down the drain.
- Make one-pot meals to save on washing.
-Instead of running water while washing or peeling vegetables and fruit, use a large bowl or plastic tub. Put the produce in the container; add just enough water to cover. Use a vegetable brush to scrub the produce clean
Additional Tips for Water
-When it comes to drinking water, it takes 1.5 gallons to manufacture one plastic water bottle. Getting a water filter for your drinking waters saves you water and money.
-Keeping a pitcher of water in the refrigerator keeps it cold and ready to drink.
(Powdered borax)
(Utilizing ionized)
(Drinking Water)
(Hand Washing)
