Four Simple Ways to Save Water, According to a Plumber

With World Water Week putting the spotlight on one of our most precious resources, it’s a great time to look at the small changes that can make a big difference at home. We spoke with Travis Hargrave of Hargrave’s Plumbing in Lafayette, Louisiana, who shared four simple ways to reduce water waste - without making life any less convenient.

1. Upgrade your showerhead 
High-efficiency showerheads are one of the easiest ways to reduce water use, with Travis sharing that they can cut water consumption by 30–50%. You still get your morning shower - you’re just using less water to do it!

2. Give your faucets a quick upgrade 
Replacing your faucet aerators is another easy win. These small devices simply screw onto your existing faucets and can help reduce the amount of water flowing from the tap.

3. Don’t let a leaky toilet waste water
A faulty toilet flapper is one of the most common causes of wasted water. The good news? There’s a simple way to check whether your toilet is quietly leaking. Add a few drops of food coloring, Kool-Aid or toilet dye to the tank and wait. If the color appears in the bowl without flushing, you’ve got a leak. If you do find one, replacing the flapper is a relatively easy fix. If you’re replacing the entire toilet, consider a dual-flush model, which gives you the option of a lower- or higher-volume flush depending on what’s needed.

Travis also has a handy DIY guide to checking for toilet tank leaks.

4. Give rainwater a second life 
Rain barrels connected to downspouts are a simple way to capture water that would otherwise run off. The collected water can then be reused around the yard to water lawns, flower beds, gardens and plants.

The takeaway? Saving water doesn’t always require a major renovation or a dramatic lifestyle change. Sometimes, it’s as simple as changing a showerhead, checking your toilet or collecting a little rain.

And as Travis says, every little bit counts.

About Hargrave’s Plumbing

Hargrave’s Plumbing is a true family business, owned and operated by Travis and Bridget Hargrave. Travis learned the trade from his father, Burt, who was plumbing homes in Lafayette back in the 1970s. He has been serving customers across Acadiana since 1995.

Travis and Bridget started Hargrave’s Plumbing in 2005 with just one truck. Today, the company has grown to seven trucks operating from two locations across Acadiana — while remaining a family-run business at heart.

With decades of hands-on experience behind the company, Travis knows that when it comes to saving water, even the smallest changes can make a difference.

For more water-saving tips and plumbing advice, visit: www.hargravesplumbing.com