We are constantly
looking for ways to ensure water is available for future generations. Part of
that commitment includes helping our customers understand what they can do to
help.
By using the tips
below, you can make water conservation a part of your daily routine and also
save water and money. With some small changes, you can be a part of this
commitment while at the same time, help lower the cost of your water bill.
Outside your home
- Lawn & Garden watering uses a
lot of water. Water your lawn or garden only when it needs it. An easy way to
tell if your lawn needs water is to simply walk across the grass. If you leave
footprints, your lawn may be thirsty! Generally, lawns and gardens only need an
inch or so of water per week during the summer months. Water your lawn wisely
by:
- Making the most of your watering by
watering in the early morning or late evening. As much as 30 percent of water
can be lost to evaporation by watering during midday.
- Planning for fewer, deep-soaking watering
to encourage deep root growth and stronger turf.
- Set your lawn mower one notch
higher to make your lawn more drought-tolerant.
- Use drip irrigation hoses to water
plants or slow release bags/containers for trees so less water is lost to the
soil and is taken up by roots.
- Consider using porous pavement
(gravel is a good example) instead of asphalt for driveways and walkways, the
rain will soak into the soil instead of running off and contributing to
erosion.
- Use a broom instead of a hose to
clean your sidewalk, driveway, or patio.
- Plant appropriately for your local
climate. Check with local nurseries for non-invasive, drought-tolerant plants.
- Reduce the amount of water used for
washing vehicles or reduce how often you wash them. Don’t let the water run during soaping, use
only for rinsing. This can save as much
as 150 gallons of water.
Inside your home
- Run dishwashers and clothes
washers only when they are full. If you have a water-saver cycle, use it.
- Adjust the water level of your clothes washer so it matches your
load size.
- Regularly check your toilet, faucets, and pipes for leaks. If
you find a leak, have it fixed as soon as possible. You can test
toilets by putting food coloring in your toilet tank. If color begins to appear in the bowl within
30 minutes, you have a leak. A slow dripping sink can add up to 15
gallons per day / 450 gallons per month of water loss. A 1/16th inch leak for example can
add up to 950 gallons per day / 28,300 gallons per month of water loss. Leaks are the single most contributing factor
in increased water bills. As sharp
increase in your bill from month to month could also indicate a leak.
- Check your water meter before and after a one-hour period when
no water is being used. If the meter changes at all, you probably have a leak.
- Consider water and energy-efficient appliances. Products and
services that have earned the WaterSense label have been certified to
be at least 20 percent more efficient without sacrificing performance. The
-- USEPA reports that EPA-certified Energy Star washing machines may use 35% less
water per load. Water-saving showerheads, toilets and faucet aerators can also
help cut your water usage.
- Insulate exposed water pipes with pre-slit foam insulation.
You’ll enjoy hot water faster and avoid wasting water while it heats up.
- Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth or washing dishes in
the sink.
- Take shorter showers and turn off water while shaving or
brushing your teeth.
- Defrost food in the refrigerator versus under running tap.
In
summary, by using water saving devices and simple practices in your home, you
can potentially reduce the amount of water used by 25-35%. This means the average households, which uses
350 gallons per day, can save 125 gallons per day or 45,000 gallons per year,
ultimately conserving water and saving money in the bank.
