Updated: 25-Jun-2009

WATER CONSERVATION


Why save water?

Water conservation is something we all should practice. Except for the air we breathe, water is the most single important element in our lives. By conserving, not only are we protecting a valuable resource, but water saved is money saved. By conserving, you'll pay less in water and sewer charges. Reducing the amount of time in the shower and/or reducing the level of hot water in the tub saves on your fuel bill as well.


How much water are we using?

Household faucet: 3.5 gallons per minute
Shower: 5-10 gallons per minute
Tub bath: 50 gallons, if full
Toilet flushing 5-7 gallons
Dishwasher 15-25 gallons
Washing machine: 35 gallons


Conservation Tips

  • Check the faucets in your home for leaks. Just a slow drip can waste 15 to 20 gallons a day.
  • Take shorter showers. Turn off water while soaping up. Replace shower head with a low consumption type (2.5 gpm or less).
  • Don't overfill tub. You can bathe adequately with one quarter of the amount a tub can hold.
  • Check the toilets in your home for silent leaks (see Frequently Asked Questions). If remodeling, replace with low consumption models (1.6 gallons/flush or less).
  • Install low consumption aerators on the kitchen faucet (2.2 gpm) and bathroom sinks (0.5 gpm).
  • Instead of letting the water run in the sink when you want a cool drink, keep a jug or pitcher full cooling in the refrigerator.
  • Do full loads when using the dishwasher or washing machine.
  • Shaving with the water running in the basin is wasting at least one gallon per minute. A stopped basin needs one-half gallon or so of water for adequate razor rinsing.
  • Don't let the water run when you brush your teeth.


    • Lawn Watering
  • Delay regular lawn watering during the first cool weeks of spring. This encourages deeper rooting and makes the lawn healthier.
  • Water your lawn or garden early in the day, not in midday heat.
  • Don't sprinkle grass lightly--deep-soak it. Light watering can't get water down into the soil. The grass develops shallower roots and is both less drought-resistant and more prone to winter kill.
  • Sprinklers that throw large drops in a flat pattern are more effective than those with fine high sprays which can be blown about and evaporate quickly.
  • Adjust your lawn mower to a higher setting. The grass blades grow longer and shade one another helping to hold moisture longer.
  • Don't water your lawn too much or too little. Experiment to determine the water needs for your lawn. The local lawn and garden shop should be able to advise you.

Source: A.W.W.A.
D.E.P.