Laying Low

Looking to hide out this summer? No need to cower in the shower. Here are some easy tips for lowering your energy and water consumption while washing off all of your summer sweat.

• Install a low-flow showerhead. These are usually easy to install. Simply wrap some plumber's tape around the pipe to prevent leaks, then screw the showerhead on over it. Find one that will let you adjust the water flow, and you can save water when shaving or lathering. (Unfortunately, the one that I bought a couple of years ago is no longer sold, but this one looks similar.)
• Turn down your water heater. You should see a dial near the bottom part of your water heater that will let you set it to a lower heating level. Here's why.
  
• Take a shower in the dark. This is one of my favorite things to do in the summer. When it's so hot I can't stand it, I turn out all of the lights. Usually there's enough daylight filtering in to see, and it makes the daily chore seem a little mysterious.

Not as interested in laying low? Save water by showering with a friend. Seriously, every little bit helps.