Conserving Water
Indoor Water Conservation Tips
Effective tips to help you save water and reduce your water bill!
In the Kitchen
- Use a Dishwasher: Only run your dishwasher when it’s full to maximize water efficiency.
- Energy Star Dishwasher: Chose Energy Star and save even more water and energy.
- Install Water-Efficient Faucets: WaterSense labeled models can save the average family 700 gallons per year.
- Scrape Your Plates: Scrape food into the trash or compost instead of rinsing dishes under running water.
- Fill the Sink for Rinsing: When washing dishes by hand, fill the sink or a basin instead of letting the water run.
- Use the Right Pan Size: Use appropriately sized pots and pans for cooking to avoid using excess water.
In the Bathroom
- Install Water-Efficient Fixtures: Upgrade to WaterSense-labeled showerheads, faucets, and toilets to reduce water use by up to 50%.
- Take Shorter Showers: Reducing your shower time by 5 minutes or less can save over 10 gallons of water each time. That’s over 3,600 gallons per year.
- Turn Off the Tap: Don’t leave the water running while brushing your teeth, washing hands or shaving.
- Check Toilet Leaks: Check toilets regularly for leaks by adding food coloring to the tank—if color appears in the bowl without flushing, there’s a leak.
- Fix Toilet Leaks: A leaking toilet alone can waste up to 200 gallons per day. This could cost up to $130 per month.
Doing Laundry
- Wash Full Loads of Laundry: Always run your washing machine with a full load of laundry to maximize water efficiency.
- Choose the Right Water Level: If you need to wash a smaller load, adjust the water level settings on your machine.
- High-Efficiency Washing Machine: An Energy Star labeled washing machine uses less water and can save up to 50% per load.
Other Indoor Tips
- Monitor Your Water Bill: Keep an eye on your monthly water usage. Sudden spikes may indicate a leak or excessive water use.
- Check for Leaks Around the House: Regularly inspect all faucets, pipes, and appliances for leaks. Even a small drip can waste gallons of water each day.
- Reuse Water: Collect water from tasks like rinsing fruits or vegetables to water indoor plants.
- Protect Your Pipes: Protect your pipes from freezing temperatures. If a pipe breaks, turn off your water at the meter and call a licensed plumber to begin repairs.
