Sara is working on making her house more eco-friendly. She has a number of upgrades she wants to make such as replacing her toilet that uses 5 gallons per flush with a new toilet that uses 1.2 gallons per flush. She also wants to replace a leaky faucet in her kitchen. Finally, she would like to replace her old washing machine that uses 35 gallons of water per load with a new high-efficiency model that only uses 10 gallons per load.
Which item should Sara replace first and why? Support your answer with evidence and reasoning...
Sara should replace the washing machine first because it has the highest water usage compared to the other two upgrades. The old washing machine uses 35 gallons of water per load, whereas the new high-efficiency model only uses 10 gallons per load. This means that by replacing the washing machine, Sara can save 25 gallons of water per load.
In contrast, replacing the toilet will save 3.8 gallons per flush, and replacing the leaky faucet will save an indeterminate amount of water depending on the severity of the leak. While these upgrades are still important, they will not have as significant of an impact on water conservation compared to replacing the washing machine.
Furthermore, replacing the washing machine with a high-efficiency model can also save energy and money in the long run. High-efficiency washing machines use less water, require less detergent, and have shorter wash cycles, resulting in lower energy bills and fewer carbon emissions. Sara can also potentially qualify for rebates or incentives for purchasing an energy-efficient appliance.
In conclusion, replacing the washing machine should be Sara's top priority when making her house more eco-friendly. It has a higher water usage compared to the other upgrades and can also lead to long-term energy and cost savings.
Sara should replace the leaky faucet in her kitchen first. Here's why:
1. Water waste: A leaky faucet can waste a significant amount of water over time. Even a small leak can add up to hundreds of gallons of wasted water each year. By fixing the leak, Sara can immediately reduce her water consumption and prevent unnecessary water waste.
2. Cost-effectiveness: Repairing a leaky faucet is relatively inexpensive compared to replacing a toilet or a washing machine. The cost of replacing a faucet cartridge or a worn-out seal is minimal, which makes it a cost-effective option for Sara.
3. Environmental impact: The environmental impact of fixing a leaky faucet is immediate. Water scarcity is a global concern, and by conserving water, Sara can contribute to reducing the strain on local water sources and preserving this valuable resource.
4. Ease of installation: Replacing a faucet is generally a straightforward task that can be done without professional help. There are numerous resources available online, such as tutorials and step-by-step guides, that can assist Sara in completing the replacement on her own, saving her time and money.
By addressing the leaky faucet first, Sara can start conserving water immediately, reduce her utility bills, and make progress towards her goal of creating a more eco-friendly home.