Saving Water Indoors

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Follow these simple steps below to help save water in your home.

In the bathroom:
  • Install low-flow toilets. New low-flow models use 1.6 gallons or less of water per flush. Older models use 5 gallons or more per flush. 
  • Flush less — remember not to use the toilet as a trash can.
  • Turn off the water while brushing teeth, shaving, etc. Letting the water run wastes 3 to 5 gallons a minute.
  • Take shorter showers - aim for 5 minutes or less.
  • In the shower, wet yourself down, turn the water off, lather up, then turn the water on to rinse off soap.
  • Use less water when taking a bath- close the drain first and fill tub only one-third full. The initial burst of cold water will be warmed by the hot water as the tub fills.
In the kitchen:
  • Run the dishwasher only when its a full load. This helps save water and energy.
  • Scrape, don’t rinse, your dishes before loading in the dishwasher.
  • When purchasing a dishwasher, consider a water-efficient model.
  • Use the short cycle when using the dishwasher.
  • Use your garbage disposal sparingly and start composting your kitchen waste.
  • Thaw frozen food in the refrigerator or counter, not under running water.
  • When washing dishes by hand, wash and rinse dishes in a dishpan or sink. Avoid letting the water run continuously.

In the laundry:

  • Run the washing machine only you have a full load. This helps save water and energy.
  • Use the shortest wash cycle for lightly soiled loads.
  • Check hoses regularly for leaks.
  • Pretreat stains to avoid rewashing.

Additional tips:

  • Repair leaky pipes and faucets
  • Install low-flow fixtures throughout your home.
  • Insulate your water pipes — you’ll get hot water faster, plus avoid wasting water while it heats up.
  • Never put water down the drain when there may be another use for it, such as watering a plant or cleaning.
  • Replace leaky drain plugs in sinks and bathtubs.