Information courtesy of EPA WaterSense
Saving water around the home is simple and smart. The average household spends as much as $500 per year on its water and sewer bill but could save about $170 per year by retrofitting with water-efficient fixtures and incorporating water-saving practices.
Inside the Home
Consider installing a WaterSense labeled toilet and faucet. This is one of the most cost-effective ways to save water. WaterSense labeled toilets could save a family of four more than $90 annually on its water utility bill, and $2,000 over the lifetime of the toilets.
Repair dripping faucets and showerheads. A drip rate of one drip per second can waste more than 3,000 gallons per year.
A full bathtub can require up to 70 gallons of water, while taking a 5-minute shower uses only 10 to 25 gallons. Turning off the tap while you brush your teeth can save 8 gallons per day.
Wash only full loads of dishes and clothes or lower the water settings for smaller loads. Replace your old washing machine with a high-efficiency, ENERGY STAR® labeled model, which uses up to 50 percent less water and electricity.
Outside the Home
Water your lawn or garden during the cool morning hours, as opposed to midday, to reduce evaporation. Use sprinklers that
produce droplets, not mist.
Don’t over fertilize. You will increase the lawn’s need for water.
Raise your lawn mower blade to at least 3 inches. Taller grass promotes deeper roots, shades the root system, and holds soil
moisture better than a closely cropped lawn.
Use mulch around trees and plants to help reduce evaporation and control water-stealing weeds.
Garden plants that are native to where you live and group plants together by water requirements. Try not to overwater your landscaping.