Residences
Please note that these suggested measures are not intended to supercede more stringent state, tribal, or local health and safety regulations.
Bathroom Tips
- Do not let water run while shaving or brushing teeth.
- If you must use a tub, close the drain before turning on the water and fill tub only half full. Bathe small children together.
- Never pour water down the drain when there may be another use for it, such as watering a plant or garden.
- Never use your toilet as a wastebasket.
- Take short showers instead of tub baths. Turn off the water flow while soaping or shampooing.
Kitchen & Laundry
- Add food wastes to your compost pile instead of using the garbage disposal.
- Do not use water to defrost frozen foods. Thaw in refrigerator overnight.
- Keep drinking water in the refrigerator instead of letting the faucet run until the water is cool.
- Operate the dishwasher only when completely full.
- Scrape, rather than rinse, dishes before loading into dishwasher.
- Use a dishpan for washing and rinsing dishes.
- Use the appropriate water level or load size selection on the washing machine.
- Wash fruits and vegetables in a basin. Use a vegetable brush.
Outside & Yard Tips
- Avoid purchasing recreational water toys which require a constant stream of water.
- If you have a swimming pool, consider a new water saving pool filter.
- Lower pool water level to reduce amount of water splashed out.
- Sweep driveways, sidewalks, and steps rather than hosing off.
- Use a pool cover to reduce evaporation when pool is not being used.
- Wash the car with water from a bucket, or consider using a commercial car wash that recycles water.
- When using a hose, control the flow with an automatic shut-off nozzle.
Equipment & Appliance Maintenance
- Consider purchasing a high efficiency washing machine which can save over 50% in water and energy use.
- Install low-flow aerators and shower heads.
- Install ultra-low flow toilets, or place a plastic container filled with water or gravel in the tank of your conventional toilet. Be sure it does not interfere with operation of the toilet's flush mechanisms.
- Repair all leaks. A leaky toilet can waste 200 gallons per day. To detect leaks in the toilet, add food coloring to the tank water. If the colored water appears in the bowl, the toilet is leaking.