IN THE KITCHEN

  • Run the dishwasher only when fully loaded.
  • Use the dishwasher's "economy" setting if possible.  Remember that hand-washing dishes may use more water than a dishwasher.
  • Garbage disposals use large amounts of water.  Consider composting food waste or putting it in the trash instead.
  • Do not use running water to thaw meat or frozen foods.  Defrost frozen food in the refrigerator or in your microwave.
  • ​If you run the faucet while waiting for water to get hot, collect it in glasses or a pitcher, then use the collected water for drinking, watering plants, etc.

FIND LEAKS & FIX THEM QUICKLY

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  • Check faucets to make sure they don't leak or drip. If a faucet drips once a second, it can waste hundreds of gallons a month.
  • ​Remember to check outdoor spigots, as well.
  • Check each toilet for leaks by adding food coloring to the tank & waiting 15 minutes.  If the food coloring appears in the bowl before you flush, you have a leak.  Remember to flush so you don't stain the tank or bowl.
  • An unusually high bill may indicate a leak in your underground supply line.  The customer usually owns and is responsible for the part of the service line between the meter and the building.

IN THE BATHROOM


  • A toilet made before 1994 may use thousands of gallons more each year than newer models.  Consider installing a new toilet with the WaterSense label.
  • Use a "toilet dam," such as a small bottle filled with rocks.  Make sure it does not interfere with flushing mechanisms.  Do not use a brick.

AROUND THE HOME OR BUSINESS

  • Maintain your water heater following the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Wash only full loads of clothing & set the washing machine to the proper water level.
  • Insulate hot water pipes.
  • Look for water-efficient filtration or softening systems.
  • Energy-efficient appliances are likely to be water-efficient, too.
  • Know where your master shut-off valve is located.  Be prepared to use it in case of a burst pipe or other emergency.


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  • A water-efficient showerhead will pay for itself in a few months.
  • Install aerators on faucets.
  • Don't leave faucets running while brushing teeth or shaving.

OUTDOORS


  • Water the lawn no more often than necessary.  Do it early in the morning & avoid watering on windy or rainy days.
  • Don't use a sprinkler that sprays with a fine mist.
  • Use sensors & other technology to help sprinkler systems work more efficiently.
  • When washing your car, use water & soap from a bucket.  Use a hose with a shut-off nozzle for the final rinse.
  • Raise your lawn mower blade to the highest setting, especially during dry weather.
  • When landscaping, look for plants, shrubs, & trees that use less water.  Use a layer of mulch to reduce evaporation.