Shir Hadash Green Team

Our focus this year for Tu Bishvat, the New Year of the Trees, is on water conservation. Coming from a part of the world in which water was scarce, springs and brooks were much appreciated in the Bible and became symbols of life and blessing.

Water conservation remains an important issue in Israel today and is the focus for the year for the Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel. In California too, a water crisis is looming and it is important that we learn more about steps that we can take to conserve water. Our speaker for the Tu B’Shvat shabbat morning service, Eric Rosenblum is the Division Manager for South Bay Water Recycling, for the City of San Jose.

Below you can find a list of seven areas where you can take action to conserve water and energy in your home. Saving water and energy is not only good for the earth, it’s good for your pocketbook! Click on the links for more details on easy things you can do today to make a difference!

Lower Your Water Heater to 120°F and Insulate Your Water Pipes

Your water heater is the second greediest appliance in your home in terms of energy use, but it doesn’t have to stay that way. Turning down the temp while insulating the water pipes gives you hot water sooner while keeping energy from going down the drain. Read more...

Take Shorter Showers

Your shower is the biggest user of hot water in the entire house and you may be surprised at how much energy and cost savings await you by making a simple change. Read more...

Wash Full Loads in Cold Water

Washing full loads of clothes in cold water cuts the energy used for washing your clothes in half and saves water too. Read more...

Install Low-Flow Showerheads and Faucet Aerators

Replacing your old shower head with an energy-efficient one can cut your water and energy use by half. A typical sink running for two minutes wastes at least six gallons of water, but using an aerator can reduce this to 0.5 gallons. Read more...

Run your Pool or Spa More Efficiently

Heating pools and spas uses an incredible amount of energy. Read more...

Purchase a Tankless Water Heater

Tankless hot water heaters use less energy because it heats the water only when you need it. Read more...

Purchase a Solar Hot Water System

A solar hot water system lets the sun work directly for you to heat your water. Read more...