Water Conservation Tips

Every drop counts! When you save water, you save money on your utility bills too!

• Check faucets, pipes and toilets for leaks. To check a toilet, put a few drops of food coloring into the tank. If the toilet is leaking, color will appear within 30 minutes. Check the toilet for worn out, corroded or bent parts. Most replacement parts are inexpensive, readily available and easily installed. (Flush as soon as test is done, since food coloring may stain tank.)
• Drop tissues in the trash instead of flushing them and save water.
• Upgrade older toilets with water efficient models.
• Keep a pitcher of water in the refrigerator instead of running the tap. That way, the water goes into you instead of the drain.
• Don't let the water run when rinsing your fruits and vegetables.
• Don't use running water to thaw food. Defrost food in the refrigerator for water efficiency and food safety.
• If you accidentally drop ice cubes when filling your glass from the freezer, don’t throw them in the sink, drop them in a house plant instead.
• Soak pots and pans instead of letting the water run while you scrape them clean.
• Run your clothes washer and dishwater only when they are full or adjust the water per your load.
• Wash dark clothes in cold water which will save on both water and energy. Cold water also helps your clothes keep their colors.
• When purchasing a new washing machine or dishwasher, look for energy efficient models.
• Use a water-efficient shower heads and on faucets.
• Shorten your showers by a minute or two.
• Turn off the water while you shave.
• Turn off the water while brushing your teeth.
• Adjust sprinklers so only your lawn is watered and not the house, driveway, or street.
• Plant in the fall when conditions are cooler.
• Water your lawn and garden in the morning or evening when the temperatures are cooler.
• Use pistol-grip nozzles on all hoses and always turn off the faucet tightly to prevent leakage.
• Spreading mulch around plans retains moisture.
• Adjust your lawn mower to a higher setting. Tall grass shades the roots which hold moisture.
• If you have a sprinkler system, install a rain sensor on your controller so your system won't run when it's raining.
• When the kids want to cool off, use the sprinkler in an area where your lawn needs it most.
• Wash your car at a commercial car wash that recycles water.
• If you chose to wash your car at home, wash it on the lawn.
• When you give your pet fresh water, don't throw the old water down the drain. Use it to water your plants.
• While at home or staying in a hotel, consider reusing your towels.
• Use a broom to clean the driveway instead of a hose.
• When cleaning out fish tanks, give the nutrient-rich water to your household plants.