Did you know that washing your own car in the driveway or parking lot can actually do more harm than good? That’s because the dirty water entering storm drains from pavement washing does not undergo treatment before it is discharged.
A study by the City of Federal Way, Wash., found that residential car washing led to numerous pollutants being released each year into their storm sewer system, including 190 gallons of gasoline, diesel and motor oil; 400 pounds of phosphorus and nitrogen; and 60 pounds of ammonia.
I was surprised to learn that professional car washes are typically a much greener option for washing vehicles than washing your car in the driveway at home. Washing at home with a garden hose can use more than 60 gallons in as little as five minutes, but most professional car washes treat and recycle water, virtually eliminating waste. The average homeowner uses 116 gallons of water to wash a car, according to the Mid-America Regional Council, and most commercial car washes use 60 percent less water for the entire process than a homeowner uses just to rinse the car.
WaterSavers professional car washes use only 40 gallons or less of fresh water per car wash – that’s less than the typical home washing machine uses per load. The process cleans and re-uses the water for future car washes, or it undergoes treatment prior to returning it clean to the environment. For more information and to find a certified location near you, visit WashWithWaterSavers.com
To keep us all thinking green, I am giving one lucky winner a Branded USB Car Charger, Pop-Up Trunk Organizer, Car Vent Clip and $20 Visa Gift Card!
To enter this giveaway, complete any or all of the options listed below. Giveaway ends 8/13. Good luck!
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Fine Print – I was given a prize pack and WaterSavers is giving another to a reader. All of the opinions and statements above are my own.
Alli is a Chicago based wife and mother of two children. She has turned money-saving into a game and enjoys searching out the best deals to help you save money! Alli shares her insight, tips and up-to-the-minute deals for local and national retailers and brands. Her hope is that you will play the game and learn to save money at the same time!