Water shortage is a growing problem worldwide that needs immediate attention. Factors like climate change, overuse of water, and unsustainable agricultural practices are some causes of imminent water scarcity. So, we must be mindful of how we use water to prevent its wastage and conserve water. There are several ways in which one can contribute to this cause; thus, here are some of the mistakes to avoid to prevent water shortage or scarcity. Fix leaks in the house Statistics state that a regular leak in a household can account for 10,000 gallons of water being wasted every year. Some of the most common types of leaks found at home are worn toilet flappers and dripping faucets. Some measures that can be taken to check the leaks in the house are given below: It is advised to monitor water usage during the winter months, like January or February. If a family of four consistently uses more than 12,000 gallons of water per month, then there is definitely a leak somewhere in the water system that needs to be fixed. Another trick is to check the water meter before and after a 2-hour gap period when the water was last used. If there is any change in the usage meter, it clearly indicates that there is a leak somewhere in the water pipeline.

Buying a dishwasher is an excellent choice, as it brings with it many benefits for one’s home. Whether one loves to prepare elaborate meals and doesn’t fancy washing up post-cooking or has a busy family and could do with a hand around the house, the appliance is the perfect time-saving solution. That said, like with any other appliance, a few mistakes, such as the ones mentioned below, can render it useless or reduce its life. 1. Overcrowding the rack Dishwashers can easily clean kitchenware, provided one does not overcrowd it. Too many dishes can cause detergent and water to get lodged in the crevices of the dishwasher. When this happens, the dishes are not going to be cleaned evenly. Spacing out items is the best way to ensure the load is adequately cleaned. 2. Failing to clean the dishwasher’s seal Individuals should pay attention to the lining of the dishwasher’s door. Grime and mold accumulating on the seal can compromise its functionality and leave air gaps. If this happens, one may notice food slime, detergent, water, and other residue slowly creeping out of the gaps, which could be annoying to clean up. It is important to periodically wipe the seal and check for damages to ensure it does not leak and improve the dishwasher’s durability.

Home maintenance is an ongoing task. Falling behind on HVAC systems’ maintenance, appliance maintenance, and even plumbing can require a complete replacement. One of the best ways to maintain a home and its structural integrity is cleaning things and repairing them at the first signs of wear, but aside from neglecting the same, people can make several mistakes when caring for their home. So, here are eleven common home repair and maintenance mistakes to avoid. Not winterizing Many homeowners forget about winterizing, a crucial step in maintaining their property. Winterizing is taking preventative measures to protect the property against damage that freezing temperatures can cause. Tasks like insulating pipes to prevent them from freezing and bursting, clearing gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage, sealing windows and doors to prevent drafts, and servicing heating systems to ensure they function efficiently during the colder months are all part of the winterizing process. Winterizing a home or property helps prevent costly damage and ensures the comfort and safety of occupants during months when the area sees freezing temperatures. Not addressing water damage One of the biggest lapses in maintenance is not addressing water damage immediately. When spaces like bathrooms aren’t kept dry, water damage and mold can affect them and further penetrate the structure, resulting in costly repairs or even complete replacements.