Water

Water-Saving Tips

• Replacing an old toilet with a new model can save the typical household 7,900 to 21,700 gallons of water per year
• Check toilets periodically for leaks and repair them promptly
• Take a quick shower rather than a bath
• Install a water-efficient showerhead
• Clean vegetables in a sink or pan partially filled with water rather than running water from the tap
• Re-use the water that vegetables are washed in for watering houseplants or for cleaning
• Whenever possible, compost food scraps
• A full dishwasher is more water-efficient than washing the same load by hand
• Wait until you have a full load of laundry before running the washing machine

Irrigation

• Water before 8 a.m. or after 6 p.m.
• Water in several short sessions
• Only water when your lawn is thirsty
• Install moisture sensors in each irrigation zone
• Check sprinkler system valves periodically for leaks
• Install a rain shut-off device on automatic sprinklers
• Avoid sprinklers that spray a fine mist
• Install a drip irrigation system for watering gardens, trees, and shrubs

Pools

• Reduce the amount of time you run the pool filter pump
• Consider an automatic time clock for your filter to not run your pool filter on hot summer afternoons when demand for electricity is at its highest
• Do regular preventive maintenance
• Use automatic pool cleaners
• A good pool cover will save energy and water
• Make use of solar energy by locating your pool in the sunniest part of your yard
• Consider solar heating for your pool

Spas

• Portable spas are more energy-efficient than in-the-ground spas
• Don’t run the jets unless you are using your spa
• Spa covers are important to conserve energy