Water Conservation
...it begins with you
Here are a few practical ways that can make a difference:
- Restrict outside watering to 10 PM - 5 AM
- Check all automatic animal feeders are working correctly.
- When washing or rinsing dishes by hand, don't let the water run continuously. Fill a pan for washing and a pan for rinse. This water could also be used for watering plants or flushing commodes.
- Run your washing machine and dishwasher only when they are full and you could save 1000 gallons a month.
- Check indoor and outdoor faucets for leaks that drip and repair.
- Put food coloring in your toilet tank. If it seeps into the toilet bowl, you have a leak. It's easy to fix and you can save more than 600 gallons a month.
- Avoid planting turf in areas that are hard to water such as steep inclines and isolated strips along sidewalks and driveways.
- Install covers on pools and spas and check for leaks around your pumps.
- Use the garbage disposal sparingly. Compost instead and save gallons every time.
- Plant during the spring or fall when the watering requirements are lower.
- Keep a pitcher of water in the refrigerator instead of running the tap for cold drinks.
- Minimize evaporation by watering during the early morning hours, when temperatures are cooler and winds are lighter.
- Wash your produce in the sink or a pan that is partially filled with water instead of running water from the tap.
- Use a layer of organic mulch around plants to reduce evaporation and save hundreds of gallons of water a year.
- Use a broom instead of a hose to clean your driveway or sidewalk and save 80 gallons of water every time.
- If your shower can fill a one-gallon bucket in less than 20 seconds, then replace it with a water-efficient showerhead.
- Collect the water you use for rinsing produce and reuse it to water houseplants.
- We're more likely to notice leaky faucets indoors, but don't forget to check outdoor faucets, pipes, and hoses for leaks.
- Periodically check your pool for leaks if you have an automatic refilling device.
- Only water your lawn when needed. You can tell this by simply walking across your lawn. If you leave footprints, it's time to water.
- When you shop for a new appliance, consider one offering cycle and load size adjustments. They are more water and energy-efficient than older appliances.
- Time your shower to keep it under 5 minutes. You'll save up to 1000 gallons a month.
- Adjust your lawn mower to a higher setting. Longer grass shades root systems and holds soil moisture better than a closely clipped lawn.
- When you clean your fish tank, use the water you've drained on your plants.The water is rich in nitrogen and phosphorus, providing you with a free and effective fertilizer
- Direct downspouts and other runoff towards shrubs and trees, or collect and use for your garden.