Water conservation

Household water conservation not only saves water, it also saves energy needed to heat water and to run appliances. Furthermore, our contribution to saving water resources will help to protect the environment.

Dishwasher: Most dishwashers use about 12 gallons per wash. Avoid running the dishwasher if it is not fully loaded.

Washing dishes by hand: Do not wash dishes with the water running. Fill one sink with washing water and use the other sink for rinsing.

Toilet: Old toilets use about 7 gallons of water per flush. There are two ways to reduce water usage:

1. Discard tissue in the wastebasket instead of flushing it down the toilet
2. Reduce the water consumption per flush with a low-flow toilet; most toilets use more water than necessary.

Check the toilet for hidden leaks. Leaks can occur when parts are old or when the toilet is out of adjustment. You may check for hidden leaks by adding food coloring to the tank. If, without flushing, the color begins to appear in the bowl, you have a leak that should be repaired.

Showers/Baths: Most showers use between 2.5 to 10 gallons of water per minute. Time yourself and reduce the water jet. A partially filled tub uses far less water than a long shower, while a short shower uses less than a full tub. Install water-saving shower heads or flow restrictors.

Shaving/Busing teeth: Water taps run at about 5 gallons per minute. Do not leave the water running during activities such as shaving and brushing teeth.

Laundry: Most washing machines use 40 or more gallons of water per load, whether it's a full or small load. Wash in full loads only, or change the setting of your machine for half loads if possible. If you are planning to buy a new machine, make sure you buy one that saves energy and water.

Garden watering: Do not set a fixed watering schedule. Use common sense for watering plants to save water. If it is cool or cloudy, you do not need to water as often. Water in the cool of the day to avoid evaporation. Let the water sink in slowly, do not apply lots of water fast.

* Resource: "Water conservation at home," City of San Diego