Ways to Conserve at Home

Stay at home orders might result in an increase of water use at home. Here are some ways to help conserve.

In the kitchen

• When washing dishes by hand, don't let the water run while rinsing. Fill one sink with wash water and the other with rinse water.
• Use the garbage disposal sparingly. Compost vegetable food waste instead and save gallons every time.
• For cold drinks keep a pitcher of water in the refrigerator instead of running the tap. This way, every drop goes down you and not the drain.
• Wash your fruits and vegetables in a pan of water instead of running water from the tap.
• Collect the water you use for rinsing fruits and vegetables, then reuse it to water houseplants.
• Soak pots and pans instead of letting the water run while you scrape them clean.

   

  In the bathroom

• When running a bath, plug the tub before turning the water on, then adjust the temperature as the tub fills up.
• Put food coloring in your toilet tank. If it seeps into the toilet bowl without flushing, you have a leak. Fixing it can save up to 1,000 gallons a month.
• Turn off the water while brushing your teeth and save 25 gallons a month.
• Keep a bucket in the shower to catch water as it warms up or runs. Use this water to flush toilets or water plants.

Outside

• Adjust sprinklers so only your lawn is watered and not the house, sidewalk, or street.
• Install covers on pools and spas and check for leaks around your pumps.
• Water your lawn and garden in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler to minimize evaporation.
• We're more likely to notice leaks indoors, but don't forget to check outdoor faucets, sprinklers and hoses for leaks.
• Adjust your lawn mower to a higher setting. A taller lawn shades roots and holds soil moisture better than if it is closely clipped.
• Install a rain sensor on your irrigation controller so your system won't run when it's raining.