Water efficiency is the smart use of our water resources through water-saving equipment and fixtures, and the simple steps we can all take around the house and work. Using water efficiently will help ensure reliable water supplies today and for future generations.
Some of the things we can do to save water are as follows:
n Install efficient fixtures — toilets, refrigerators, etc., especially when rebates and cash incentives are offered.
n Use showerheads that flow at 2.5 gallons per minute or less.
n Replace old toilets (http://www.savingwater.org/inside_bathroom_toilets.htm) (i.e., if installed before 1994). You can save more than $1,000 in water and sewer charges over the next 10 years. WaterSense-labeled toilets perform well and save water. Some utility companies and stores offer rebates and cash incentives.
n Save water, energy, and money with energy efficient washers, dryers, and dishwashers.
n Wash full loads of laundry to save water, energy, and time — don’t underfill.
n Replace older faucet nozzles (aerators) with new ones that are rated at 2.0 gallons per minute or less. Aerators cost only a few dollars.
n Turn the water off when washing dishes. If you have two sinks, fill one with wash water and the other with rinse water. Otherwise, fill a separate basin with rinse water.
n Wash only full loads in your dishwasher. You'll save both water and energy.
n Fix leaky toilets, indoor faucets, and outdoor faucets around your home — it can cost you up to $200 a year on your utility bill, and waste 10,000 gallons of water. Check for toilet leaks by adding food coloring to the tank. If the toilet is leaking, color will appear in the bowl within 15 minutes. (Flush after the test is done to prevent staining the tank.)
n Consider alternative uses to water that are not related to health and safety — like using a broom instead of a water hose to routinely clean sidewalks and driveways.
n Eliminate daytime landscape watering by watering at night and using weather-based or moisture-sensing controls. Avoid watering the street or sidewalk.
n Don’t over-fertilize. You will increase the lawn’s need for water.
n Raise your lawn mower blade to at least 3 inches. Taller grass promotes deeper roots, shades root systems, and holds soil moisture better than a closely cropped lawn.
n Plant climate-appropriate species. Try plants that are native to where you live and don’t require as much water, and group plants together by water requirements.
n Look for sprinklers that produce droplets, not mist, or use soaker hoses to irrigate.
n Take a 5-minute shower. It uses 10–25 gallons versus up to 70 gallons for full bathtub.
n Turn off the tap while you brush your teeth. This can save 8 gallons per day.
n Use mulch around plants. It reduces evaporation and controls water-stealing weeds.
You can find rebates in your area, information on teaching kids water conservation, water saving calculations, and a quick and fun quiz to test your “WaterSense” on the EPA website at http://www.epa.gov/watersense/
