Water Conservation Tips

Water is one of the most valuable natural resources to our world. The following tips can help to reduce your water consumption considerably, while also saving you money in the long run.

Inside Your Home

Stop Leaks: Check faucets, appliances and irrigation systems annually for leaks. Make any necessary repairs.

Replace Old Toilets: Water-efficient toilets are 1.6 gallons of water per flush. Toilets manufactured prior to 1992 are not considered water efficient.

Replace Washing Machines: Replace washing machines that are more than ten (10) years old. Purchase a machine that has a water factor that is at or lower than 9/5, which will use 35% to 50% less water and 50% less energy per load. Also be sure to wash a full load of laundry. Consider designating one specific day of the week to do your laundry.

Area Maintenance Meter: Consider installing this extra meter for water used in your garden or swimming pool. This will not necessarily help you conserve water, but it will save you money in the future as you will only be charged for water consumption and not for sewerage.

Dishwashers: Be sure your dishwasher is full before using it. Purchase a “Water Efficient” model.

Bathrooms: Fill your tub with only as much water as you need. Infants, small children and pets can be washed in the sink or a separate basin. Take shorter showers; for every minute you run your shower you use 2.5 gallons of water. Place a basin or plastic bucket in the shower with you. Excess water can be used to water your plants!



Outside Your Home

Sprinkler System: Instead of running your sprinkler system every day, use an irrigation bucket to water your hanging baskets or plants. When it rains, place an irrigation bucket outside to catch the rainfall. This excess water can be used the next day to water your garden, plants and hanging baskets by hand, instead of using your sprinkler.

Do Not Over Water: The excess water carries pollution into storm drains and ditches that lead directly to our rivers and lakes. In fact, did you know that each of us uses 77 gallons of water a day? Here are more tips····

Improve your aim. Adjust your sprinklers to water only your lawn and plants — not your driveway, sidewalk, or street.

Use Mulch: Place a thick layer of mulch (e.g., four inches) around trees and plants. This helps retain water, reduce weeds and minimize the need for pesticides.

Sweep It: Clean sidewalks and driveways with a broom, instead of a hose. You'll save water and keep unwanted pollutants out of the storm drain.

Rainwater: Use rainwater to water your plants. Direct downspouts toward your plants and green areas or collect water with rain barrels for use later.

Mow High: Make your lawn cheaper and easier to maintain by mowing high (three inches is recommended). Longer grass has deeper roots and requires less water.

Car Wash: Car-wash facilities either recycle their water or treat their dirty water before discharging it to our lakes and streams. So make a date and take your car to a car wash! If washing your car at home, try to direct the dirty water towards the lawn and away from the storm drain. Reduce the amount of soap you use or wash your car with plain water.


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