Housing cooperatives, or co-ops, are a unique form of home ownership where residents jointly own and govern their building or community.
This form of collective living is not merely about sharing a roof; it's about actively participating in managing the affairs of the property, from administrative tasks to maintenance duties.
Housing cooperatives have become increasingly popular in cities across the world due to their affordability and sense of community. One such example is the Ash Street Housing Coop, known for its thriving community and cost-effective living solutions in the Chicago southland.
However, living in a housing cooperative isn't without its challenges or expenses. Just like owning a single-family residence or renting an apartment, each co-op member pays their share of the water bill.
Therefore, finding ways to reduce water usage is not only environmentally responsible but also financially wise. By adopting water-saving habits, the members can significantly lower their utility expenses and contribute to a more sustainable living environment.
Five Effective Strategies to Save Money on Your Water Bill
When it comes to saving water, small changes can have a big impact. Here are five, super easy, effective strategies for reducing your water bill in a housing cooperative:
Strategy 1: Turn Off Water While You Brush Your Teeth
A simple habit like turning off the tap while brushing your teeth can lead to substantial water savings. If every member of the housing cooperative adopted this practice, the cumulative savings could be considerable. This is a small change that requires minimal effort but can make a significant difference in your water bill over time.
Strategy 2: Wait Until The Dishwasher Is Full Before Running A Load
Dishwashers are more water and energy-efficient than washing dishes by hand. However, to maximize these benefits, it's best to wait until the dishwasher is full before running a load. This not only conserves water but also saves on energy costs.
Strategy 3: Only Water Your Lawn in The Evening After The Sun Goes Down
Watering the lawn is often a major contributor to high water bills. To reduce water usage, it's advisable to water lawns in the evening when the sun has gone down. This prevents water from evaporating quickly and ensures that more water is absorbed by the plants, making your watering efforts more effective.
Strategy 4: Take Shorter Showers
Showers account for a significant portion of household water usage. By reducing shower time, members of a housing cooperative can significantly decrease water usage. Consider setting a timer, or listening to a short playlist to keep track of time.
Strategy 5: Only Wash Full Loads of Laundry - Never Half
Just like dishwashers, washing machines should also be used efficiently. Always wait until you have a full load before running the washing machine. This not only conserves water but also saves energy, leading to further cost savings on utility bills.
Remember, every drop counts. By implementing the strategies outlined in this article, members of housing cooperatives can significantly reduce their water bill, contributing to a more affordable and sustainable living environment.
Become a Member of a Housing Cooperative
Stop by Ash Street Housing Cooperative to discuss availability and pricing! Discover a unique form of home ownership that offers an almost maintenance-free lifestyle at a low monthly cost.