Top Water Saving Tips & Practices
Even though 70% of the earth's surface is covered by water, less than 1% is suitable for drinking. It is important to conserve this natural resource by practicing moderation and installing water-efficient products in your home. Here are some helpful tips and practices so you can save water and live green:- Using toilets with High-Efficiency Toilets (HETs) can save up to 22,000 gallons of water a year. Don’t use your toilet as trashcan, this only inhibits efficiency and uses more water.
- Cutting a minute off your shower every day will save more than 900 gallons of water annually (based on a taking a seven minute shower). Purchasing WaterSense labeled 1.75 gpm showerheads can save your more than 7,500 gallons of water annually.
- Using efficient faucets and installing low-flow aerators on kitchen and bath faucets will save hundreds of gallons of water each month without requiring any additional effort.
- Use the appropriate water level and load size when doing laundry in your washing machine. For the most savings, purchase a frontload washing machine.
- Use a broom rather than a hose to clean off driveways, steps and sidewalks.
- Water your garden or grass in the morning when it’s coolest, and avoid watering on windy days.
- Turn off the water while brushing your teeth or shaving to keep excess water from going down the drain.
- Landscape with low-water plants to significantly reduce water usage outside the home.
- Use leftover drinking water for houseplants, instead of pouring it down the drain.
- Make sure the dishwasher is fully loaded, and use the energy-saving dry option, if available.
- Always purchase ENERGY STAR® labeled appliances when it comes to your washer and dishwasher because they typically use 50% less water and electricity and are much more efficient.