Water-saving tips for homeowners and apartment dwellers

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BPT - Water conservation is a topic oftentimes disregarded. If not prioritized by contractors and tenants equally, the ramifications can be costly. As the U.S. population grows so does the need for water, and according to UNICEF, half of the world's population could be living in areas facing water scarcity by as early as 2025.

Whether you're a self-made developer, working contractor, or simply interested in getting into the business, the suggestions below can help counsel and ensure multifamily units are suitable for adequate living.

Water-saving tips

The average American family spends more than $1,000 per year on water costs. That translates to about an $83 monthly water bill, according to the EPA. Fortunately, there are simple tweaks one can implement to help cut down on consumption and reduce that monthly spend.

Install a new showerhead

The average family could save 2,700 gallons per year by installing WaterSense® labeled showerheads. These types of showerheads can also help alleviate water heater demands and save on energy consumption. Luckily, many of Peerless Faucet's bath fixtures are proudly WaterSense labeled which denotes the fixtures use at least 20% less water than the industry standard without compromising performance. A great option is the brand's 5-Function Showerhead with POWERush technology. This showerhead uses larger water drops in a unique wave pattern for a more drenching sensation. With this technology, contractors can promise tenants a rejuvenating experience without increasing overall water usage.

Monitor for potential leaks

Whenever faucets drip, it could be more than just water going down the drain. Faucet leaks waste environmental resources and cost tenants money, which in turn could be requested as a credit from property management. Experts estimate that even a small drip, once every 10 - 15 seconds, can waste almost 15 gallons a month, or nearly half a gallon in a day. You can easily check for leaks by observing the plumbing. It's important to keep eyes peeled and physically feel exposed pipes to check for any running water. Condensation around pipes can also be a sign of leakage. For toilets, a simple dye test can even verify if the flapper is sealing properly and help prevent silent leaks.

For contractors specifically, ensure all fixtures are installed properly - from the back-of-the-wall pipes to the product itself, each step should be followed with care to avoid future leaks. Most brands will provide an install guide within the packaging, but if that gets lost or misplaced, the brand's website can also be a handy resource to find these materials.

Change your bathroom habits

Daily routines that are often overlooked can also have a significant impact on your water bill. For example, many may not realize that each time one leaves the water running while they brush their teeth, four gallons of water goes down the drain. Simply turning off the water while brushing is a simple way to save. Other easy solutions for conserving water are turning off the shower while lathering or the kitchen faucet while scrubbing dishes.

Both contractors and tenants should prioritize water conservation best practices. Water is universal, and an element shared by all, so making sure it's preserved and filtered adequately can ensure a better quality of life and monthly savings.

A Guide to Organizing Your Storage Rental Unit

Photo: Michal Balog/Unsplash

SNS - Effective organization is key to maximizing the utility of a storage rental unit. Whether you're downsizing, moving, or simply seeking to declutter your living space, a well-organized storage unit can streamline access to your belongings while optimizing available space.

In this guide, we'll outline practical steps to help you efficiently organize your storage unit. From planning ahead and categorizing items to utilizing vertical space and prioritizing accessibility, these strategies will enable you to make the most of your storage space. By following these straightforward techniques and maintaining a systematic approach, we can ensure that you are organizing your storage rental unit in the most efficient way possible.

Choosing the Right Unit Size

Selecting the appropriate size for your storage unit is crucial to effectively storing your belongings. Begin by assessing the volume and dimensions of the items you plan to store. Consider not only their size but also their shape and how they can be stacked or arranged efficiently.

It's better to opt for a slightly larger unit than to risk cramming items into a space that's too small, which could lead to damage or difficulty accessing your belongings. Take into account any future storage needs you may have, such as seasonal items or furniture you plan to acquire.

You always might want to keep more items than you originally intended to store. By carefully evaluating your storage requirements and choosing a unit size that accommodates them comfortably, you can ensure that your belongings are stored safely and securely while maximizing the use of your storage space.

A woman writing down notes while packing her belongings

Organizing your storage rental unit requires categorizing, labeling, using shelves or containers efficiently, creating accessible aisles, prioritizing frequently used items at the front, and regularly decluttering.

Photo: Karolina Grabowska/PEXELS

Planning Ahead is Important for Organizing Your Storage

Rental Unit Efficiently

Before you start organizing your storage unit, take time to plan your approach carefully. Begin by creating an inventory of the items you intend to store. This will help you estimate the amount of space you'll need and determine the types of storage supplies required, such as boxes, bins, or shelving units.

Consider the frequency you'll need to access certain items and plan their placement accordingly. In addition, think about any specific storage requirements for fragile or sensitive items. Having a clear plan in place before you begin organizing will save you time and frustration later on. It allows you to approach the task systematically and ensures that your storage unit is organized in a way that best suits your needs.

In Illinois, where weather conditions vary greatly throughout the year, planning ahead is especially important when organizing your storage rental unit. Before storing items, consider the climate and weather patterns of the region. For example, if you're storing belongings during winter, be mindful of protecting sensitive items from cold temperatures and potential moisture.

Investing in climate-controlled storage units can help mitigate any weather-related risks and ensure the preservation of your belongings. Also, ensure you find quality cardboard boxes to protect your items. There are a lot of good manufacturers in Illinois that you can choose from. In addition, Illinois residents may need to plan for seasonal changes in storage needs, such as storing winter gear during the warmer months and vice versa.

Cleaning and Preparing the Unit

Before moving your belongings into the storage unit, it's essential to ensure the space is clean and properly prepared. Start by thoroughly sweeping and cleaning the unit to remove any dust, debris, or potential pests. Check for signs of pests or leaks and address them promptly to prevent damage to your stored items. Additionally, consider laying down pallets or plastic sheeting to protect your belongings from moisture and dirt.

Taking these preventive measures will help maintain the integrity of your belongings while they're in storage. It's also a good idea to inspect the unit periodically and promptly address any maintenance issues to ensure your stored items remain safe and secure. By cleaning and preparing the unit before storing your belongings, you can minimize the risk of damage and create a clean, organized space for your items.

As mentioned, the weather in Illinois can be a bit tricky when it comes to organizing your storage rental unit. Check for signs of pests, especially during warmer months when insects are more active, and take necessary precautions to prevent infestations. Given the potential for heavy rainfall and snow in Illinois, consider laying down plastic sheeting or using pallets to elevate your belongings and protect them from moisture. Additionally, inspect the unit for leaks or water damage, as heavy precipitation can risk stored items.

A woman cleaning a shelf.

Before storing items in your unit, thoroughly clean and dry them to prevent mold and mildew growth.

Photo: Cottonbro Studio/PEXELS

Securing Your Unit

Ensuring the security of your storage unit is paramount to safeguarding your belongings. Start by investing in a high-quality lock to secure the unit's door effectively. Consider using a heavy-duty padlock or a disc lock for added security. Additionally, inquire about the facility's security measures, such as surveillance cameras or on-site personnel.

Opt for a storage facility with enhanced security features to deter theft and unauthorized access. Consider purchasing insurance coverage for added protection when storing valuable items, such as electronics or heirlooms.

Regularly inspect the unit for any signs of tampering or damage to the lock, and report any concerns to the facility management immediately.

Beyond the initial steps of securing the door with a robust lock, there are additional measures you can take to bolster the security of your storage unit.

One effective strategy is to place your valuables within the unit in a way that ensures they are not immediately visible from the entrance. This can help deter potential thieves who may be scouting for easy targets. Furthermore, consider installing motion-sensor lights inside and outside the unit to illuminate any suspicious activity at night.

A silver security camera that monitors the area.

Install a high-quality lock and consider additional security measures such as tamper-evident seals or an alarm system to protect your storage unit.

Photo: PEXELS/Pixabay

Secure and Organized Storage

Organizing your storage rental unit is essential for ensuring the safety and accessibility of your belongings. By planning and choosing the right unit size, you can optimize space and minimize the risk of damage. Thoroughly cleaning and preparing the unit before storing items helps protect against pests and weather-related damage, especially in Illinois with varying climate conditions.

Additionally, prioritizing security measures such as high-quality locks and surveillance can deter theft and unauthorized access. Regular maintenance and vigilance are key to maintaining the integrity of your stored items over time. By implementing these strategies, you can create a secure and organized storage space that provides peace of mind and convenience whenever you need to access your belongings.


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